Stress is a killer, and we all probably know that, especially in those situations when the deadlines are nearing and we find we still haven’t completed the task at hand. Whatever the reason it appears for, stress diminishes productivity, while also taking a toll on our health. This is why experts recommend a few simple guidelines that we have to bear in mind when dealing with it, as summed up by Shape magazine.

We know that working out has beneficial effects on our general wellbeing and mood, as we also know that keeping hunger at bay is one way of feeling good throughout the day. With this is mind, it’s no wonder the most important recommendations experts offer us as regards stress management also deal with these two aspects. This way, their best advice is to keep moving about whenever we have the chance and to remember to eat right.

“Eat breakfast. Research shows that skipping breakfast may cause you to eat more later in the day. If you’re famished by the time lunch rolls around, you’re likely to overindulge, which isn’t just detrimental to your diet, but your stress levels as well. Putting too much glucose (blood sugar) in your system at one time adds stress to your body. Plus, any glucose that isn’t used is stored as fat and carrying around extra pounds is a strain.” Shape writes. By eating breakfast every day, you stay healthy, but also in top shape.

“Stretch it out. Even if you’re stuck in an epic meeting or tied to the phone with constant conference calls, you can still move your body. Hunching over a computer all day can take its toll, so do some stretches to release muscle tension. Reach forward to stretch your upper back and shoulder. To relieve tension from your neck, lift each ear away from the shoulders. Cross one foot over the opposite knee and lean forward slightly to stretch your hip and butt muscles.” the same magazine further writes.

Of course, it’s not just stretching that is highly recommended, as any type of movement is encouraged. For instance, if you have something to tell a colleague from a different department, forget the email and just walk to where he or she is working to tell it in person. Don’t take the elevator to your floor, take the stairs, use your lunch break to include a walk as well, and so on and so forth. Of course, while we’re on the topic of things to change, we should also reduce caffeine and nicotine intake to reduce stress, experts say.