This year we are feeling the burn, and not just in our legs with daily walks during COVID-19 lockdowns – but feeling burned out emotionally due to a growing number of stress factors.

Recent Zespri™ consumer research* revealed COVID-19-related stress (56%) and health stress (48%) are impacting emotional wellbeing, with the stress factors of work, family and financial pressures continuing to have a sweeping impact on our overall vitality and wellbeing.

Australian Psychologist Jaimie Bloch said: “Ongoing exposure to stress, on-off lockdowns and ongoing uncertainty can fuel emotional exhaustion. On top of that, many of us are currently expected to work full-time hours, or study-full time at home with limited social connection and interactions. When people work continuously without the ability to recharge and re-energise through holidays, social gatherings or engaging in passions, that's when burnout strikes.”

HOW DO I FEEL LESS BURNED OUT AND MORE VITAL/BRIGHTER?

In good news, the research revealed many Australians are aware that certain foods can have a positive impact on the body (66%) and use diet along with exercise and sleep, as one of the top three effective approaches to rejuvenate emotional wellbeing when facing challenges.

Psychologist Jaimie shared that having a healthy body and mind together is a recipe for greater overall wellbeing: “Our diet and water intake is the fuel that our brain relies on to perform at its optimum levels. Cognitive function is important for motivation, concentration, decision making and our ability to manage emotions and this can be supported by making several healthy decisions – from getting enough sleep to the nutrients we eat.”

Research has shown that vitamin C can contribute to normal psychological function and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. In fact, just one Zespri™ SunGold™ Kiwifruit has 100% of your daily vitamin C needs, helping you to feel recharged and revitalised throughout the day.

HOW CAN VITAMIN C HELP MY VITALITY?

Well-known nutritionist and chef Teresa Cutter says a diet high in of vitamin C is one of the best ways to rejuvenate our health and wellbeing.

“Make an effort to focus on foods with vitamin C such as Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit to add to breakfast meals and even to salads. This provides a concentrated source of nutrients that your body will love and help it function at its best,” said Teresa.