Whether it’s the result of high levels of the stress hormone cortisol, unhealthy stress-induced behaviors, or a combination of the two, the link between stress and weight gain is glaring. If your stress and/or stress-related weight gain is causing you distress or making it unmanageable to fulfill daily responsibilities, it may be time to seek professional health.
Stress can fundamentally affect your capacity to keep a healthy weight due to rises in the stress hormone; cortisol. It can also keep you from losing weight.
Cortisol and Sugar cravings walk hand in hand. Sugar supplies nourish your body with the energy it thinks it needs, it’s often also the first thing you reach for when you’re stressed.
Stress can also drive you to engage in the following unhealthy behaviors:
– Emotional Eating
– Fast Food Binging
– Skipping Meals
– Exercising Less
– Sleeping Less
How to overcome this vicious cycle?
– Make exercise a priority
– Eat healthier comfort foods
– Drink more water
– Practice mindful eating
– Keep a track journal
– Acknowledge that this is okay, and it’s normal
