Life is full of stress, but long-term stress can cause physical harm and even lead to weight increase. To better handle the consequences of stress, it is helpful to understand how it affects your metabolism and eating patterns. This is how stress might cause you to put on extra weight:
Stress Slows Down Your Metabolism
A hormone called cortisol is secreted by the body in response to stress. This hormone redirects blood flow from the digestive system to the muscles and organs that improve your ability to cope with stress. Because your metabolic rate is slowed down and digestion is impaired, your body has a difficult time processing food efficiently due to this redirection.
Increased Cravings for Sweet Foods
The desire for sweets increases when you are feeling anxious. Sugar delivers a short surge of energy, which might be enticing when you’re feeling overwhelmed. But a lot of the time, this extra energy ends up as stubborn belly fat.
Overeating Triggered by Stress
When your cortisol levels are high, you are more likely to overeat and crave unhealthy meals. Overeating is more likely to occur when people are under stress, which can lead to weight gain.
Stress and Sleep Disruption
Inadequate sleep may be the result of disturbed sleep patterns brought on by chronic stress. In addition to slowing your metabolism, not getting enough sleep makes it even more difficult for your body to maintain a healthy balance, which can cause you to gain weight uncontrollably.
In order to maintain a healthy weight and better handle stress, it is important to understand how it affects your body.
