Stress Relief and Weight Loss

by Susan Patterson

While diet and exercise is the cornerstone of any sensible weight loss program, many people overlook the importance of stress relief. There will be a period of awkwardness initially, which can lead to higher stress levels. But overall, you need to make sure you are managing your stress properly in order to increase your chances for success.

In addition to the emotions you feel when stressed, there are several chemical reactions occurring in the body. One of these is the release of adrenaline, and though this helps to reduce appetite and give you energy, it is only short-lived. When we’re stressed, we are more likely to sit and stew in it, so the energy we get fuels our thinking and nothing more. Another chemical released during stress is called cortisol, and unlike adrenaline, these levels stay elevated much longer.

Cortisol is responsible for signaling us to replenish our bodies and can increase appetite. Even if you don’t use the energy you initially get from the adrenaline, the cortisol will still be released, many times increasing your appetite and telling you to eat when you really aren’t hungry. Our bodies are wired this way, which is why many times we will begin to eat when stressed though we don’t need to. We also tend to crave carbohydrates because sugar is what is normally used when we expend that excess energy.

When you are trying to lose weight, staying calm is vital to appetite control. One of the easiest ways is through walking. Studies show that walking has a positive effect on mood, and can help control hunger. Experts recommend walking 60 minutes a day, five days a week or more. Yoga and meditation are also powerful stress relief techniques. There are many videos or CDs you can buy to allow you to practice in the privacy of your own home. Any of these techniques will be helpful if you are trying to experience safe and quick weight loss.

For some, controlling their appetite is the most stressful part of losing weight. The constant calorie counting and monitoring of eating habits can be too much for them. Others are stressed and constantly feel hungry, which can lead to total abandonment of any weight loss efforts. If hunger is a real problem, try a fast-acting natural appetite suppressant like a hoodia shot. This doesn’t have the same effects as others which contain strong stimulants and lead to ravenous hunger once they wear off.