How Stress impacts everything including your food

In today’s fast-moving world, stress has unobtrusively become one of the most powerful forces affecting our minds, our bodies, and even the energy around us. We know too that chronic stress can lead to fatigue, digestive issues, low immunity, as well as chronic illness. But did you know it also impacts how one’s body receives nourishment?

When you’re stressed, your body shifts into “fight or flight” mode. This means digestion slows down or even shuts off because your body thinks it’s in danger. So even if you’re eating the healthiest foods, your body may not absorb the nutrients properly should you be tense, anxious, or eating hurriedly.

But it goes beyond this. Food carries energy - your energy; the energy of the person who prepared it; the space where it was prepared. If you’re preparing food while being angry, anxious, or distracted, that energy can subtly transfer into the meal. And when you eat in a negative or chaotic environment, your body feels it too.

That’s why protecting your energy is just as important as protecting your nutrition.

So how do you protect your food and body from stress and bad energy?

By slowing down before you eat.

By saying a blessing or simple “thank you” over your meal.

By not eating while scrolling, arguing, or working.

By surrounding your food and space with calm, positive intention.

By nourishing yourself with love and not only calories.

When you protect your energy, your food becomes a source of deeper nourishment and fuel.

Powerful Quotes to Reflect On

“Don’t dig your grave with your own knife and fork.” – English Proverb

“The energy you bring into the kitchen is the energy you bring into your body.” – Unknown

“Your body hears everything your mind says.” – Naomi Judd

“Where attention goes, energy flows.” – Tony Robbins

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” – Hippocrates

“If you truly love yourself, you will never harm yourself with food, words, or thoughts.” – Unknown

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Take a Moment for You

Journaling Prompt:

What kind of energy do I bring to the table when I eat?

Am I rushing, worrying, or multitasking — or am I giving myself the presence I deserve?

Simple Calming Recipe: Warm Ginger-Lemon Tea

• 1 cup hot water

• 2 thin slices fresh ginger

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Optional: 1 tsp raw honey

Let steep for 5–10 minutes. Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and feel your body soften.

You deserve to feel nourished, not just full.

With love,

Jackie Denise

Different Facets of Happiness Podcast