How Stress Drains Your Nutrients—And What You Can Do About It
- Dr. Tracy McCarthy
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
When you’re under stress whether it’s a tough work season, family overwhelm, or just the weight of the world, your body doesn’t just feel it. It burns through resources to help you cope.
Stress makes your body work overtime, and that means a higher demand for key nutrients, especially the ones that support your nervous system and energy levels. If you’ve been feeling extra tired, tense, or foggy, here’s what might be going on underneath the surface:
✨ Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for calming the nervous system, supporting sleep, and helping your muscles recover. But here’s the tricky part:The more stressed you are, the more magnesium your body uses.Low magnesium can leave you feeling more anxious, tense, and restless, creating a stress loop that’s hard to break.
✨ B Vitamins
These are your energy and brain-boosting vitamins. B vitamins also help your body produce stress hormones like cortisol. Some research shows that supplementing with B vitamins can actually help reduce stress symptoms, including low mood and mental fatigue.
✨ Vitamin C
Did you know your adrenal glands release vitamin C along with stress hormones?When you’re stressed, your body’s need for vitamin C goes up dramatically. And since we can’t make it on our own, we have to get it from food or supplements.
So what can you do to support your body during stress?
Here are a few small but powerful ways to nourish yourself:
✔ Eat nutrient-dense foods. Think leafy greens, wild salmon, berries, and pastured eggs.
✔ Consider high-quality supplements. Not all supplements are created equal—ask your provider for guidance.
✔ Try adaptogenic herbs. Ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil can help modulate your body’s stress response and boost resilience.
A quick reminder:

Supplements alone won’t make stress vanish but giving your body the building blocks it needs can help you respond with more strength, clarity, and ease.
Take the next step in prioritizing your heart health. If you are a California resident, Schedule a discovery call today to explore how we can support your wellness journey!
Comments