It comes as no surprise to most of us that our diets and sedentary lifestyles are major contributors to skyrocketing rates of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, but even healthy eaters and avid exercisers can fall prey to these life-threatening conditions. The reason? Stress.
The causes of stress are generally twofold: for many, there’s a genetic component to anxiety and elevated stress levels, and the high blood pressure that stems from stress (and increases it) has a genetic component, too. For others, lifestyle factors can significantly increase stress, from high-pressure careers, relationship trouble, or even day-to-day stressors, like long lines at the bank, toddler tantrums, or a car that won’t start on a snowy day.
Unfortunately, while our bodies are fine-tuned machines in many respects, they can’t differentiate between a situation that merits a serious stress reaction and one that causes some momentary tension. Sadly, the effect is the same — our bloodstream floods with cortisol, a stress hormone that causes our bodies to store belly fat, gain weight, and tense up even more.
Fortunately, there is hope for you yet, even if your stress level feels unmanageable. Start your path relaxation by adding the 42 Best Foods For a Good Night’s Sleep to your meal plan and discover the 43 Healthy Ways to Reduce Your Stress Level!