chronic stress wreaks havoc on your body
Stress is a part of life, but when it runs wild, it becomes a BIG problem.
Cortisol belly? That stubborn weight around your midsection could be sabotaging all your efforts—and the worst part? It often goes unnoticed.
Your brain consumes tens of GB’s of data daily (the equivalent of watching 16 Netflix movies!). No wonder your ancient fight-or-flight system is constantly on high alert.
The key? Target stress. Get it under control (easier said than done, I know), and watch other aspects of your health start to fall into place.
Most people don’t realise stress doesn’t just make you feel overwhelmed or anxious—it has far-reaching consequences. Chronic stress impacts everything from brain function and heart health to weight and energy levels.
Long-term stress can lead to:
- Weight gain
- High blood pressure
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Mental and physical fatigue
And let’s not forget how stress messes with your food choices! It kills your appetite for the good stuff and amplifies cravings for ultra-processed, hyper-palatable foods. In a world where we’re constantly surrounded by junk, this is a recipe for disaster.
Why a Calorie Isn’t Just a Calorie
Not all calories are created equal. For example:
- Fat has more calories per gram than refined carbs, but…
- Refined carbs cause a more damaging metabolic response, leading to insulin resistance.
Ultra-processed foods drive overeating, blood sugar spikes, weight gain, and visceral fat accumulation—all increasing your risk of metabolic disorders.
This can also drive an increase in visceral fat – and this is the worst kind of fat.
This is the fat stored around your organs, especially in your abdomen, and chronic stress is a major culprit. High cortisol levels push more fat into this dangerous storage zone.
Your muscles act as a glucose sink, clearing up to 70% of the glucose from your bloodstream. But chronic stress blocks glucose absorption into muscle tissue, spiking blood sugar levels and leading to insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
Managing Stress = Protecting Your Health
Feeling stressed is inevitable, but you can take control with the right tools. Here are some science-backed ways to reduce stress and improve overall health:
- Meditation & deep breathing
- Listening to music or creating art
- Walking in nature
- Regular exercise
- Prioritising fun and relaxation
Managing stress isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about protecting your metabolism, brain, and long-term health.
