How Stress Leads to Obesity ?

Stress is a major factor responsible in the increasing evidence of obesity. Studies have shown that people who are under stress eat inappropriately. Sometimes they eat even if they are not hungry or over eat at times. The improper food intake is due to the hormonal changes which takes place in the body when you are stressed. Under stress people reach for more carbohydrates, fattening foods, sugary foods like cola, muffins, cakes, candies, french fries, doughnuts, cookies etc.

The hormones which get affected when you are stressed, and consequently lead to obesity are:
  • Serotonin - Also called as the happy hormone, serotonin is secreted by the brain and responsible for the feel good factor. When people in stress reach for sugary and fried foods, it elevates the serotonin which comforts the body and mind.
  • Cortisol - Cortisol is responsible for fat accumulation and energy use in the body. When the body is stressed there is excess release of cortisol. Increased cortisol makes us crave for sugars and fats, which consequently can lead to weight gain.
Following are some ways that can alleviate stress, and prevent weight gain:
  1. Physical activity of 30 or more minutes such as brisk walking releases happy hormones, which helps to reduce stress
  2. Yoga/Meditation helps to relax the body physically and mentally.
  3. Involve yourself in activities you really enjoy like dancing , singing, playing music, reading books etc.
  4. Studies have shown that healthy sex also reduces stress
  5. When eating under stress, portion control is important; eat 4 to 5 small meals rather than 2 large meals.
  6. When snacking under stress, prefer fruits and vegetables over junk foods.

Comments

  1. Swati AroraFebruary 9, 2011 at 5:52 AM

    Its a very good topic which you have come up.But have you ever thought why stress has occupied people so much.
    Go through the link given below which tells how to handle stress.
    http://in.news.yahoo.com/management-tip-day-steps-reduce-toxic-worry-20110207-063820-820.html

    ReplyDelete
  2. Swati AroraFebruary 9, 2011 at 5:58 AM

    BOSTON (Reuters Life!) - Too much stress hinders productivity and can be downright dangerous to your health, but there are ways to address worry before it becomes toxic, says Harvard Business Review.
    The Management Tip of the Day offers quick, practical management tips and ideas from Harvard Business Review and HBR.org (http://www.hbr.org). Any opinions expressed are not endorsed by Reuters.
    "Some anxiety is an inevitable part of our lives, but in today's fast-paced world, it can become overwhelming. Too much stress hinders productivity and can be dangerous to your health. Here are three steps to address worry before it becomes toxic:
    1. Don't worry alone. Talk to someone you trust -- a friend, partner, or colleague -- about your concerns. Sometimes just talking can be a relief, and your listener may provide some reassuring guidance.
    2. Get the facts. Often a small problem can get blown out of proportion. Before you let worry consume you, get the facts. Find out what, and how big, the real problem is.
    3. Let it go. When you can't do anything about the problem, give it up and forget about it. This may be easier said than done, but it is worth the conscious effort."

    ReplyDelete

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