The following news story is being sent to all Extension educators to use with your local media. Please feel free to adapt this for your local newspaper columns, radio programs, etc. Stress during spring planting would be a good angle for farm families.
Nourishing food is important, just as sleep, relaxation, cleanliness, and exercise are important.
Mary Darling, nutritionist with the University of Minnesota Extension Service, says supplements, vitamins, or tonics are promoted as being helpful when it comes to handling stress. However, large amounts of supplements may create imbalances, which are another type of stress for your body. The B vitamins are essential for healthy nerve tissue and they are found in meat, milk, and whole grain or enriched cereal products. To provide your body with energy and nutrients, eat a variety of foods in moderate amounts. Use the Food Guide Pyramid to help you select the variety of foods needed for good nutrition.