Excessive stress in daily life causes imbalances in the hormone cortisol, the so-called stress hormone. This hormone when present at adequate levels has a positive impact on our energy and mental disposition, but when its levels are too high it complicates weight loss and has a negative impact on body composition. In addition, excess stress compromises intestinal integrity and contributes to intestinal permeability. A permeable gut causes inflammation, which is a determining factor in obesity, weight gain, and retention of adipose tissue. Not least, chronic stress alters the composition of the microbiome, and an unbalanced microbiome is another important factor contributing to increased inflammation and weight gain. All these factors that are directly related to stress can have a highly negative impact on metabolism, complicating the process of optimizing body composition.
In summary, the impact of stress on weight gain and on the microbiome could be explained through the following factors:
- Increases levels of the hormone cortisol, which promotes fat accumulation and insulin resistance.
- Decreases levels of the hormone testosterone and muscle mass, which slows down metabolism.
- Predisposes to the appearance of food cravings and compulsions.
- Promotes the accumulation of visceral fat, which is a very dangerous process for health.
- Negatively alters the gut microbiome and microbiota, leading to inflammation.
- Promotes leaky gut.
- Decreases stomach acid, which interferes with digestive processes.
- Negatively alters blood flow to the mucous membranes that line the intestinal walls and play a very important role in nutrient absorption.
That said, adopting daily stress reduction strategies is critical to overall well-being and health. By implementing certain types of relaxation and mindfulness activities it is possible to improve the quality of life and improve not only energy, vitality, mental disposition and mood, but it is also possible to help the body maintain its ideal weight and preserve intestinal health.
