How stress can cause weight gain?

Making a successful business appointment, organizing a first love encounter, meeting the needs of children… The demands are numerous and can lead to a more or less permanent state of anxiety depending on the case.

The onset of physical symptoms then becomes difficult to manage. Are stress and weight gain related? How can you manage your anxieties without putting on weight?

The different phases

Stress is often characterized by the general public as a vague concept leading to a feeling of unease. However, as a biological reaction, it appears as a result of external, psychic, or sensory stimulation.

It is defined by three distinct phases: alarm, resistance and exhaustion.

The shock phase

The shock phase occurs when the stressor is received. The heartbeat accelerates, the muscles tense up and the blood sugar level drops. To cope with this situation, the nervous system sends a message to the hypothalamus, which releases adrenaline through its action on the adrenal gland.

It then provides the body with the energy it needs by increasing the heart rate and facilitating the release of sugar by the liver. At this stage, memory and thinking are improved. Your pupils dilate and you have better vision.

The resistance phase

The magnetic waves emitted by the magnets in the sole help to reduce the fat in the body. During the junction, the foot interacts with several organs.

These include the stomach, liver, intestines, endocrine glands and pancreas.

The exhaustion phase

During the exhaustion phase, anxiety persists and the body no longer has the resources to cope.

Immune defenses weaken, extreme tension sets in and fatigue takes root. In case of chronic stress, i.e. lasting over time, a depressive feeling may develop.

The impact on the body

Do you know that unpleasant feeling of a lump in the stomach? It is your body physically interpreting your perception of the stressful situation you encounter.

The digestive system is incredibly complex and intelligent. With millions of nerve cells, stress very often has an impact on the gastrointestinal tract.

Pervasive nausea, diarrhea, or constipation are some of the symptoms that may occur.

It is not always easy to cook a balanced meal after a long working day. Usually, we feel the urge to move towards fatty or sweet foods instead.

They are quick to prepare and provide a pleasant feeling of well-being which, at first glance, seems to have a positive impact on our anxiety. In reality, it is the reward system that is at issue.

By eating foods that we find appetizing, the body releases dopamine to fight the neurochemicals associated with stress.

This feeling of well-being is a real vicious circle. Since we are stressed, we comfort ourselves with fatty or sweet foods that make us feel better.

However, we end up putting on weight because of this poor diet. Stress and weight gain are very often associated. Obesity is the result of a stressful life that is difficult to manage.

Actions to adapt daily

The first step to freeing yourself from this state is to find the source. Once you have done this, you can take steps to remedy it.

Does someone close to you keep creating tension in your home? Walk away or try to end the relationship. Are you overworked at work? Whenever possible, delegate tasks you cannot handle to your colleagues.

Fears and troubles are often a matter of perception. By working on your way of seeing things, you can play down situations that seem frightening.

It is not always possible to control all aspects of our lives. By accepting this, you will direct your energy towards more concrete actions. Don’t hesitate to call on a specialist to help you see things more clearly.

Finally, adopting a healthier lifestyle is essential. Sleep is an essential factor in maintaining your health. To relieve tension, choose the sport that suits you best.

Prefer a cardio workout to let off steam or a yoga session to relax. Take some time for yourself! Practice activities that allow you to decompress.

If you love to cook, why not try a new recipe? Eating slowly is the first step to fighting obesity. This preparation time will help you relax and enjoy your meal more when you’re ready to eat.

Also read: 10 tips for effective weight gain