Stress is caused by excessive demands at work or at home when we take on more responsibilities than we can handle.
It is also caused by the worries and anxieties of a fast paced lifestyle.
In order to cope, we must know the symptoms, effect on weight loss and ways to overcome stress.
Symptoms of Stress You must always be aware of your body and abnormal reactions to problems.
The following are a few of the symptoms you may experience when under too much stress.
1.
Headaches - Headaches are caused by muscle contractions and tension most often caused by stress.
2.
Fast Heartbeat - Stress causes us to become more emotional than normal.
If you are in a highly emotional state, adrenaline is produced which causes the heart rate to rise.
3.
Isolation - Many people who are stressed are unable to deal with other people and just want to be alone.
4.
Irritability - Excessive stress causes irritability because you are very impatient.
Even insignificant events can make a person who is stressed lose their temper.
How stress Causes Weight Gain A stressful lifestyle has a negative effect on weight management because of three major factors.
1.
Cortisol Cortisol is a hormone also known as hydrocortisone produced by the adrenal gland in response to stress.
It is released into the bloodstream and causes a deposit of fat around the abdomen where cortisol receptors are located.
2.
Metabolism Slowed metabolism is a direct result of high levels of cortisol.
Cortisol causes a slowing of metabolism which results in weight gain even when we eat less food.
3.
Overeating Many people respond to stress by overeating which brings relief and comfort to many people.
Unfortunately, eating leads to weight gain and the stress factors are still not resolved.
Ways to Overcome Stress 1.
Exercise Develop an exercise routine since regular exercise eliminates stress by regulating cortisol levels.
In addition, exercise releases endorphins into the body that relieves tension and anxiety.
This allows people to bring balance into their lives and focus better on whatever they do.
2.
Get Plenty of Rest Insomnia is an indication that you are under excessive stress.
Getting plenty of rest helps you cope with stress.
Retire early and make the room dark and quiet to help you sleep.
3.
Meet Your Problem Head On In order to break the link Between Stress and Weight Gain you must find ways to deal with stress.
The worst thing you can do is to ignore the problem causing you stress.
Make a plan of how you will resolve whatever issues are affecting you and find ways to work around the problem.
High Cortisol, low metabolism and overeating do nothing to alleviate stress so you must resolve this problem by finding other ways to cope.