Melon Extract May Lessen Stress

        New research suggests that an enzyme extracted from melons may help ease stress and fight fatigue 
         For the study, researchers focused on 70 healthy adults (ages 30 to 55), all of whom experienced stress and fatigue on a daily basis. For four weeks, the study members took a daily supplement of superoxide dismutase (a melon extract with antioxidant effects) or a placebo capsule filled with inactive starch. Study results showed that volunteers assigned to the superoxide dismutase supplement had significant improvements in symptoms of stress and fatigue (including difficulty sleeping, irritability, and poor concentration), as well as in their quality of life.
         The study authors suggest that superoxide dismutase may help offset oxidative stress (known to occur when free radicals overwhelm the body's ability to neutralize them), which could in turn lessen psychological stress and stave off fatigue.
          Other natural approaches to stress relief include undergoing massage therapy, practicing yoga, and performing deep-breathing exercises.