Losing Weight: When exercise is not the answer
Lifestyle expert discusses the affect STRESS is having on our battle to lose weight, by Becci Sampson

 

So, your exercise routine has never been better, however progress is slow, almost none existent! Sound familiar? There are certain issues that could be contributing to this such as diet or sleep patterns; however another major factor, which we all seem to forget, is your psychological wellbeing… Stress!

Going back to prehistoric times our bodies produce stress to react to the challenges of life, known as the “fight or flight” survival mechanism. Stress aids us in threatening situations by increasing blood supply to the working muscles so that we can react quickly and effectively to “danger”.   However in today’s society “danger” comes more in the form of mental pressures from work, disagreements with loved ones, concerns over money and so on. There is no quick fix for these pressures and most of us live with stress continuously through our daily lives.
 
Short term stress is not usually a problem as the body produces hormones to cope. However the effects of long term stress is frightening. Effects of stress in the long term can include; weight gain, anxiety, depression, sleeping difficulties, headaches, high blood pressure, hair loss and diabetes.
 
Weight gain and stress is link to a hormone called cortisol. When we are put in a stressful situation our body needs to produce energy to support the ‘fight or flight’ reaction. Stress produces cortisol to stimulate the appetite with the ultimate aim to boost energy levels so we react quickly and effectively in this perceived dangerous situation. Cortisol also trains the body to store fat (our energy reserve), especially in the abdomen area, to be prepared for the next stressful situation.
 
There are numerous strategies aimed at reducing stress.
Below are our top 10; find out what works best for you!
1.   Get a good nights sleep (refer to previous issue; the importance of a good nights sleep)
2.   Eat sensibly (go easy on gluten, dairy, sugar and caffeine)
3.   Take regular exercise & plenty of fresh air
4.   Create a routine which includes time for yourself
5.   Research and learn relaxation techniques
6.   Sort out your priorities & stop doing everything yourself
7.   Learn to say No!
8.   Make a list of things that cause you stress and work with strategies that will help you deal with them – some things need to be faced head-on!
9.   Get yourself a ‘Stress Buddy’ – a close friend who will listen and let you get things off your chest
10.    Finally (my favourite) sing and dance to your favourite songs (when alone of course!)
 
If you are struggling to lose weight born2move specialise in designing individual programmes to suit you and your needs. Contact us at any time to discuss how you can transform your body and transform your life.
 
tel: 07967 839108
email: info@born2move.co.uk