We usually associate stress with its psychological effects, such as feeling overwhelmed, angry or anxious. What about the physical side effects of stress, though? Stress can have a major impact on our bodies. It can cause everything from stomachaches and headaches to muscle tension and organ damages. What is stress and how does this affect our body? What role do hormones play? Here’s everything you need to learn about the link between hormones and stress, from adding stress-support supplements to your diet to managing symptoms with yoga.
Stress Hormones in Your Body
Stress is your body’s reaction to any kind of threat or demand. Our body reacts to a perceived threat by releasing energy and hormones. The sympathetic nervous system controls this “fight-or flight” response, which allows us to respond to short-term threats. When we are constantly stressed, this response may do more harm than benefit.
Cortisol is the primary stress hormone, and it’s released by adrenal glands when they are under stress. Cortisol can have many effects on the human body. It can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and suppress the immune system. Cortisol in small doses can be beneficial, but when it is constantly high, this can cause serious health issues. Hair samples are one of the most reliable methods to measure long-term levels of cortisol in humans. Physicians may also perform a saliva or blood test.
Catecholamines are another group of stress hormones that includes adrenaline and norepinephrine. These hormones can have a variety of effects on the human body. They are released as a response to stress, whether it is physical or mental. They can, for example, increase blood pressure and heart rate as well as boost energy levels. Catecholamines are helpful in small doses. However, when they are consistently high, it can cause many problems.
Vasopressin is the last major stress hormone, and it is released when stressed or dehydrated. Vasopressin regulates blood pressure and fluid balance within the body. Vasopressin, like other stress hormones can be beneficial when taken in small amounts, but when it is constantly high, the health problems can arise.
How do stress hormones impact our bodies? Take a look.
Stress Hormones & Health Problems
Stress hormones, as we have already mentioned, can be beneficial in small doses. In an emergency, they can help you stay alert and focused. These hormones can be harmful to your health if they are released constantly in large quantities.
Cardiovascular Disease
Stress can cause cardiovascular disease. This is one of the most common effects of stress. Stress is linked to increased risks of strokes and heart attacks, as well other conditions like high blood pressure or irregular heartbeat. Stress is believed to cause the release of hormones in the body that damage arteries and veins and increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Immune System Suppression
Stress can also affect the immune system. Stress hormones can affect the normal functioning of our immune system when we are constantly stressed. We are more vulnerable to illnesses and infections.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Stress can cause a number of gastrointestinal issues, including functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGD), inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is believed that stress hormones can cause stomach acid to increase and affect digestion.
Weight Gain
Cortisol can cause weight gain. Cortisol increases appetite and a craving for food that is high in energy (think comfort foods). This same research notes that cortisol can lead to a loss in muscle mass as well as an accumulation of abdominal fat.
Anxiety Disorders and Depression
Stress has also been associated with anxiety and depression. Stress, and in particular traumatic stress can cause a buildup cortisol, which damages the hippocampus. This region of the mind is important for memory and learning. This damage is linked to increased anxiety and depression.
Reduce Stress Hormones with These Tips
Let’s take a look at some ways to reduce stress hormones now that we understand how they can affect our bodies.
Exercise
Regular exercise is one of the best ways for you to reduce stress hormones. Exercise can reduce cortisol and improve brain functions. You need to enjoy your exercise routine to keep it up.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is another way to reduce the stress hormones. Eating a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole grains will help reduce cortisol and improve your overall health. Stress hormones can be reduced by avoiding processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive caffeine.
Get Plenty of Rest
Sleeping enough is another way to reduce the stress hormones. Cortisol levels increase when we are sleep-deprived. It is essential to get seven to eight hours sleep each night to improve your health and reduce stress hormones.
Yoga and Meditation
Yoga is a great way to reduce the stress hormones. Yoga can improve cardiovascular health, flexibility, muscle strength and muscular strength. Yoga can help reduce cortisol and improve your overall health. Meditation can also reduce anxiety and stress. You will learn to slow down your heart rate, breathing and brain activity. Together, these two can reduce cortisol and improve your overall health.
Supplements
In addition to lifestyle changes mentioned above, various supplements can reduce levels of stress hormones. Stress supplements can be a convenient and natural way to reduce levels of stress hormones. They can reduce stress hormones and improve health when taken regularly, as part of a healthy life style.
Final Thoughts
Stress hormones can have an impact on our health. Exercise regularly, eat healthy, get enough sleep, meditate and practice yoga if you want to reduce your stress hormone levels. These activities can reduce cortisol and improve your overall health.
It’s important to consult a doctor if you are having trouble managing your stress. Stress and anxiety disorders can be treated with many different treatments. Do not hesitate to get help if you are struggling with stress.
