9 Ways Stress Messes With Us Every Day
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us live with ongoing pressure and multiple demands in a complex world. We may feel stressed and just accept the vibrations. Sometimes stress motivates us to move faster and perform better, but other times stress pushes us too far and needs to be reduced.
Recently Prevention provided a list of things that happen when stress accelerates. See if these direct stress symptoms fit.
An extra glass of wine seems perfect - That second or third glass of wine or brew may seem just right when the plumbing goes awry and projects start stacking up.
Bad food choices are irresistible - That plate of fries and juicy burger can be even more tempting when the day has been endless. Health specialists say an insufficient level of dopamine or serotonin can trigger cravings.
Exercise gets lost in the shuffle - Doctors say stress can torpedo energy levels. After a long stressful day, tiredness may make the couch even more inviting. If you do push ahead to do some jumping jacks or squats, some of that stress may fade.
Lost sleep and stress plot against you - Sleep may become a growing issue if your mind refuses to let go of the day's worries. Relaxing yoga poses, deep breathing, or a warm bath and music may soothe anxiety to restore restful sleep.
Getting sick keeps happening - The immune system becomes compromised when stress impacts sleep, diet and exercise habits. Eat better, walk more and rest well to stay healthy.
Acid reflux pops up - That missing report or sudden family problem can increase acid levels in the stomach triggering heartburn, and ulcers in some cases. See your doctor if the issue persists and dump that stress with morning walks or evening meditations.
Blood pressure goes up - The American Heart Association says stress can directly impact blood pressure. Maintain regular health checkups to track your blood pressure, and follow up if there are issues such as weight and ongoing pressures.
Allergies such as asthma flare - Stress with intense reactions can make asthma symptoms worse. Step back and see where the stress is coming from. As you reduce stress, allergies may subside too.
Weight is more of an issue - The stress hormone, cortisol, causes the body to hang onto fat instead of burning it. At the same time, it triggers cravings for fries, and all of those unhealthy foods. Belly fat is much more likely.
It is time to take action if you can relate to these stress symptoms. See your chiropractor, doctor and fitness coach to turn things around to let go of stress and live better.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Boulder, Colo
