When we are under stress our bodies go into what is commonly known as the “fight or flight” response. No matter what the cause of stress, our bodies react as though we need to flee from the danger and fight for our lives. A little extreme yes, but our survival mechanism is so engraned in us that our bodies know no other way to react. When our bodies enter into flight or fight mode there are a number of changes that occur-increased blood pressure and heart rate, quickening of breath, bursts of energy, and a change in thought patterns. This is the body&undefined;s way of gearing up in case we need to run (literally) from whatever is stressing us. If we continue to remain stressed out for prolonged periods of time our health can actually become at risk. Chronic stress leads to the bodys production of cortisol whichs is known as the stress hormone. High levels of cortisol can lead to weight gain because it slows down metabolism, makes you crave foods that are not so good for you, alter blood sugar levels, and contribute to fat storage. Stress can also cause you to feel an emotional need to overeat or to eat foods that are comfort foods. These include heavier foods such as potatos, cream filled soups or sauces, and warm, heavy meals. Depending on the cause of your stress, you may also make bad food decisions. For example, a single mother who is forced to work ten hours a day may feel stressed out and as if she has no time to cook. She may choose to eat fast food rather than cook a healthy home cooked meal. Stress can also render you too busy to exercise. If you are under a stressful time crunch at work you may find yourself with limited time to do anything but sleep. You can see how stress can easily lead to weight gain.
Of course, the best solution is really to avoid stress altogether. Stress not only causes weight gain but also premature aging , wrinkles, and can even cause damage to your heart. The reality is that most of us will be exposed to stress at some point, the key is to managing it. If you find yourself constantly stressed out about your job, think about changing careers. Life is too short to live under constant stress and it is not worth the harm you are doing to your body or to your emotional state.
