Can Stress Cause Weight Gain?
Authored by Kyle Golden September 28, 2022)
Yes, stress can make us gain extra, unwanted weight. Stress is unavoidable in life and a certain amount of stress can be healthy depending on its origin. However, chronic stress and fatigue can have lasting, negative effects on a person’s body and health.
Cortisol is the primary stress hormone that is released by your body when you experience a perceived threat for an extended period. In our distant past, our cave-dwelling ancestors needed that stress response to escape danger and protect our lives. Nowadays that threat can be work, relationships, finances, our health, etc. Cortisol increases the amount of glucose available in your blood for your body to use to handle the stress you are experiencing.
These hormones are not meant to be frequently present in your blood at high levels. The problem is that chronic stress situations can cause cortisol and other stress hormones to be present for longer periods of time than intended. Chronically elevated stress-related hormones can result in many negative health effects including weight gain potentially leading to obesity.
Try to reduce or eliminate your unnecessary stress situations. There are many resources available to help you healthily handle stress. Slowing down and being mindful of why you are stressed is important. Daily exercise - even just 15 minutes a day - can help to eliminate some of the negative effects of stress. Taking up mediation or a mind/body practice like yoga can also be helpful. Get a proper night’s sleep and take time for yourself as well.
(Consider this article as general information on health, fitness, and lifestyle. Always consult your physician or health care provider before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.)
Hi, I’m Kyle Golden,
Founder and Coach at Vireo Fitness. For over 16 years I have helped hundreds of clients just like you find their path to better health. Get in touch today and find out how I can help you embrace a better lifestyle and realize your full potential!