STRESS!!!!

Have I mentioned I hate my job? I wonder if the stress of grinding away 40 hours/week in a job I hate has anything to do with my inability to let go of my fat. Is the fat protective armor? Does it serve any purpose? Sitting at a desk all day doesn't help even if I do run laps around the office especially now that they've cut the staff but still expect us to crank out the same amount of work with less support.

A recent article in Self says you can fill your shopping cart with stress busting foods. Here is what they suggest:

For brightening moods:
Almonds
Lowfat yogurt
Pistachios
Salmon
Scallops
Shrimp
Walnuts

B vitamins stimulate the brain's production of serotonin, helping you relax. Choose nuts for B6, fish and yogurt for B12.

For jump-starting immunity:
Blueberries
Broccoli
Green bell peppers
Kiwifruit
Strawberries
Tomatoes

Veg out with vitamin C, which blunts the effects of stress by reducing free radicals and bolstering your immune system. It is also your body's first line of defense against stressors like colds and exertion.

For managing anger:
Avocados
Bananas
Black beans
Corn
Potatoes
White beans

Feeling steamed? Seek out potassium, an electrolyte that helps lower blood pressure.

For sounder sleep:
Chickpeas
Lentils
Oatmeal
Pumpkin seeds
Spinach
Swiss chard

Magnesium acts as a natural tranquilizer that relaxes muscles, blood vessels and the gastrointestinal tract. Plus, the mineral plays a role in boosting serotonin.

I don't see any chocolate, bread or baked goods on this list so why are those always the foods I turn to when I'm stressed? I'm going to take this list to the market tomorrow and stock up on the good stuff.