Stress plays a major role in all of our lives unfortunately. Whether it is stress from work, family life, or simply having too much to do, the pressures we all feel are straining.
Even if you choose to eat healthy and exercise on the regular, chronic stress is still finds a way to catch up to us. It can prevent you from losing weight and even make you pack on some extra pounds.
One of the main reasons you may be gaining weight is because of the stress hormone, cortisol. When we’re under pressure, the fight or flight response is triggered in our bodies, leading to the release of various hormones. This may lead you to become very hungry.
Sadly, in this situation most of us reach for junk food instead of a healthy snack. In honor of NATIONAL STRESS AWARENESS DAY, here are some tips to help stop stress weight gain to slim down your waistline:
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Eat a Good Breakfast
We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. A lack of B vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium will seriously effect how you start your day. Stock up on these necessities by drinking some OJ, eating some low-fat yogurt, or spreading some peanut butter on a whole wheat bagel.
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Keep Your Muscles Moving
Exercising is a great source for stress relief. Movement in your muscles helps your blood circulation, which transports that cortisol to your kidneys to be flushed out of your body. Try some push ups or take a stroll on your lunch break.
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Eat Your Meals Slowly
When we’re stressed we have a tendency to eat our food quicker than normal. Try to eat in smaller portions savoring each bite and pay attention to the feeling of fullness rather than stuffing your face.
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Give Into Cravings…a Little
Stress may send you into a junk food eating binge, we understand because it happens to everyone. It’s okay to give in a little, but know your limit. Tell yourself you will have one so you won’t get out of control.
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Get Enough Sleep
Get some shut eye! It is known to be the best known stress relief. A few nights of solid rest could get your body back on track to a healthy balance.
