Stress can contribute to weight gain from "summary" of The Obesity Code by Dr. Jason Fung
The stress response is a natural reaction designed to help us deal with immediate danger. When faced with a threat, the body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol to prepare us for fight or flight. This response is essential for survival in dangerous situations. However, in modern times, our stressors are more likely to be work deadlines or traffic jams rather than life-threatening situations. The problem arises when our bodies are constantly in this heightened state of stress, leading to chronically elevated levels of cortisol. This chronic stress can have negative effects on our health, including weight gain. One way in which stress can contribute to weight gain is through the impact of cortisol on our appetite and food choices. When cortisol levels are high, it can increase our cravings for high-calorie, high-sugar foods. This can lead to overeating and weight gain over time. Furthermore, stress can also affect where we store fat in our bodies. Research has shown that chronic stress can lead to an increase in visceral fat, which is the fat that surrounds our organs and is associated with a higher risk of metabolic disorders like insulin resistance and diabetes. In addition, stress can also disrupt our sleep patterns, which in turn can affect our metabolism and hormone regulation. Poor sleep quality has been linked to weight gain and obesity, as it can lead to changes in appetite-regulating hormones like ghrelin and leptin.- The relationship between stress and weight gain is complex and multifaceted. By learning to manage stress through techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and regular exercise, we can help mitigate its impact on our weight and overall health.
