Stress Affects Appetite
Stress often leads to peaks in appetite or a tendency to reach for convenience foods, many of which are high in fat, calories and processed food ingredients. One way to counteract this is to increase cardiovascular exercise and increase intake of natural, healthy foods, such as whole grain breads, yogurt, fruit and nuts (Anne Collins).
Stress Creates Fat-Producing Hormones
According to the Mayo Clinic, the body secretes the hormone cortisol when under stress. Cortisol allows protein in the body to be converted into blood sugar. Excessive amounts of this hormone is associated with weight gain. Avoiding stress in the first place is the best way to prevent this from happening. Yoga, meditation, walking and addressing stressful situations proactively can aid greatly in relaxation.
Many People Self Medicate with Food
Food is comforting in many ways, so when you are undergoing stress, emotional cravings may lead to overeating. If this is something you find yourself partaking in, check in with yourself when these cravings set in. If the reason for your hunger is stress-related, you may find that actively working to resolve the stress will rid your body of cravings as well. Rather than deprive yourself when cravings enter in, keep your portions modest and choose healthy foods most of the time. All of this will help prevent stress and the weight gain that can happen.
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