Is Your Weight Gain Caused from Stress?

Excerpt from "How to Lose Weight Fast and Look Younger

Chapter 5: Is Your Weight Gain Caused from Stress?

by M.A. Thomas

Publisher: Draft2Digital

In some cases weight gain is often stress related. Did you know that stress also depletes nutrients in the body? Stress is highly destructive to the health of the body if left untreated. When stress becomes a part of your normal life you will have a tendency to lose control and eat excessively.

What is the connection between cortisol and weight gain? Cortisol is a natural steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and performs several important functions. The release of cortisol is stimulated by the pituitary gland found inside the brain. Cortisol, also referred to as the stress hormone is responsible for cardiovascular function, the regulation of blood pressure and sugar in the blood.

Cortisol is the main hormone in the body that is activated by stress. Its levels vary throughout the day in most individuals. Cortisol levels are the highest in the morning and gradually decline toward the end of the day. At normal levels, cortisol helps to promote good health. However, when the body is stressed these hormones are triggered and high levels are released.

What are the side-effects from extra cortisol?

Extra cortisol is produced from the adrenal glands when the body is severely stressed. As a result, there is an increased risk of high blood pressure, extra sugar is released into the bloodstream that may lead to diabetes and even muscle weakness. Chronic stress also causes an increased risk for heart attacks, weight gain, digestive conditions, and other side effects. For these reasons, it is essential to use effective stress management techniques to balance cortisol levels.

Preventing Stress and Weight Gain?

People who need to lose weight may have difficulty obtaining their goal if they suffer from chronic stress. According to health experts, cortisol is associated with fat cells that are produced in the body. During high levels of stress, it is the release of these hormones that causes the extra production of fat cells throughout the body. Since extra sugar is released into the bloodstream, weight gain is likely to occur.

The best way to overcome stress is to alter your lifestyle. This is accomplished by integrating a daily workout or exercise routine to de-stress, listening to relaxing music, socializing with friends, making dietary changes such as eliminating excessive sugar, and avoiding compulsive eating. Amino acid supplementation also plays an important role for stress management.

By utilizing a stress management plan will have an easier time reach your weight loss goal.