What do studies say about Stress Ernährung?

Research shows a strong bidirectional link between stress and nutrition. Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which increases cravings for high-sugar and high-fat foods ('stress eating') and promotes abdominal fat storage. Stress also impairs nutrient absorption (e.g., magnesium, B vitamins) and disrupts the gut-brain axis. Studies indicate that a nutrient-dense diet rich in omega-3s, probiotics, and antioxidants can improve stress resilience. However, effects are moderate and individual. Evidence comes from observational studies and some RCTs; clinical relevance is present but not deterministic. Caveat: Genetic variants (e.g., COMT, BDNF) modulate stress response, but diet remains a modifiable lever. For personalized advice, biomarkers like cortisol rhythm or inflammatory markers are useful.