Learning About Stress And Weight Gain

There are a number of different effects that stress can have on the human body, and weight gain is one of the most common. Stress and weight gain are actually linked in several different ways, one in particular involving the metabolism of the body. When you are stressed your body responds like you are going to be harmed and results in giving you a burst of energy, which causes a shift in your metabolism and blood flow as well as changes in a variety of other areas.

Cravings also often are related to stress and weight gain, as many people who are stressed, either physically or emotionally, find that they tend to get cravings, especially for fatty or sugary foods. These foods may help one to feel better in the meantime but are really doing nothing to ease the stress and also are most likely having a negative effect on the body, primarily in regards to weight gain.

Blood sugar is another component to take into consideration here, as prolonged stress can alter your blood sugar levels, which in turn can cause mood swings, fatigue, and conditions such as hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is a symptom and cause of diabetes in which there are elevated levels of blood sugar, or glucose, in the bloodstream. Hyperglycemia causes mild to severe symptoms, and can even eventually lead to coma and death.

There are a variety of symptoms that you will often experience at the onset of this condition, including repeated urination, hunger even after just eating, and increased thirst.

Dealing With Stress And Weight Gain

Dealing with stress and weight gain can be one of the most difficult things in the world to do, especially considering that most people who eat when they are stressed will only get more stressed when they realize they are gaining weight and then continue to eat even more. This leaves them in a horrible cycle that often feels hopeless to get out of.

There are things that you can do to help yourself with stress and weight gain however, and the first thing is quite simple. Start stocking up your fridge and cupboards with healthy snacks and foods. This way at least if you do get cravings you will be eating healthily and thus will actually be doing good for your body rather than putting on weight.

You should also begin participating in regular exercise, at least a few hours a week and hopefully more if you can. Exercise will not only help to keep you fit, but will also make you feel generally healthier overall and make your mood more positive.