Dieticians say that foods and drinks will help you handle stress. For example:

Ginger: The gingerol in ginger acts on the stomach and reduces nausea. Add it to chicken dishes, stir fries, or make ginger tea. Add a half-cup chopped fresh ginger root to three cups of water. Simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten.

Water: If you are dehydrated, you feel tired and react more negatively to stress.

Berries: By increasing your consumption of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, you help your immune system. Blueberries are one of the richest sources. You handle stress more effectively when you feel well, according to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine in Washington, D.C.

Chocolate: Its stress-fighting antioxidants and methylxanthines stimulate feelings of satisfaction.

Oatmeal: It has soluble fiber that prevents highs and lows in blood sugar. It gives you better concentration power.

Chili and beans: Their complex carbohydrates help your body maintain a steady energy level. They help you produce serotonin, the feel-good hormone.