Stress, Weight Gain & Cortisol
Right now 62.1% of Davidson County, TN residents are overweight or obese.
Changing our diets and exercising are well known for helping people lose weight. A less known fact is the vital role reducing stress plays in weight loss.
Stress causes the hormone CORTISOL to be released. Increased levels of cortisol in the body can be linked to weight gain, ultimately hindering your success.
The rise in cortisol may also increase certain cravings, and not typically for healthy foods! Comfort foods get their name for a reason. Think about the last time you were stressed. You likely reached for the chocolate and ice cream over the celery and broccoli. Cravings for sugary, fattening foods are heightened during periods of increased stress leading to weight gain.
Anyone who has tried managing their stress knows it’s not as easy as it seems.
Practicing effective stress management techniques takes dedication, time, and practice. It’s important to know what stress management techniques work for you and use those techniques to manage your stress.
Some common stress management techniques include:
- Identifying/Removing the stressor
- Prayer and/or meditation
- Taking time to exercise
- Utilize friends and family
- Don’t try to do it all
Is weight loss or stress management your goal for this year? That’s exactly why we developed the New Year, New You Seminar! Want to come? Are you in Nashville?
Register today to reserve your seat! New Year, New You
