Stress is normal and can even healthy. It keeps us active, motivated, and productive. However too much stress has become common and is not normal or healthy. So, what is stress and how does it affect your health and wellness. Stress is a nervous system response of the body and mind to external or internal irritants. Stress triggers are anything outside your comfort zone that you must deal with. Long term stressors put you under a lot of pressure that can cause sleeplessness, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
In addition to being emotional and mental, stress can be physical as well. Your body can respond as though under stress when there is prolonged illness or injury. This puts strain on the adrenal glands. Any change can cause stress. Even good change. Your body cannot tell the difference between good changes and bad ones and reacts with adrenal output.
STRESS AND YOUR HEALTH
Cortisol is the body’s main stress hormone and is produced in the adrenal glands. Cortisol plays an important role in the body. Cortisol manages how your body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It keeps inflammation down and regulates your blood pressure. Cortisol also controls your sleep cycle and boosts energy so you can handle stress. And restores balance afterward. However too much stress or chronic stress can lead to cortisol over production.
Cortisol Over-production Can Lead to:
•Increased appetite and fat buildup, especially in the abdomen
•Depleted protein stores in muscle, tissue, skin, and bone
•Increased occurrence of depression, insomnia, memory dysfunction and seizures
•Decreased bone mass, leading to osteoporosis
•Insulin resistance (the key factor in diabetes)
Stress weakens the immune system and creates conditions for inflammation to flourish and spark disease. Stress also prevents nutrient absorption or uses nutrients at a higher rate. Avoiding disease must begin with reducing stressful events in your life and improving your ability to cope with the stresses you cannot change. However, even with lifestyle changes, stress can tax you beyond your ability to manage it. Herbal and nutritional supplements can make a difference.
FORTIFY YOUR BODY
Start by eating a nutrient dense, whole food diet made up of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Take a high-quality multi vitamin and mineral. Do not forget probiotics and digestive enzymes because it is not just what we put in but what we absorb.
Helpful Ways to Manage Stress
· Stop and Take a Deep Breath
· Use Adaptogen Herbs
· B-Vitamins Help You Be Calm
· Get Physical and Active
· Pamper Yourself
· Get a Good Night’s Sleep
