Common knowledge tells us that when we are under excess stress, we get sick. In the last 30 years, scientists have uncovered the various ways that
stress actually affects our biology to cause this to happen. Our bodies were made to handle stress in short bursts of seconds to minutes. Today’s fast pace causes many of us to remain in a “stress on” state for hours even days.
1. Stress triggers the adrenal gland to release adrenalin which raises the heart rate and blood pressure.
2.Stress triggers the adrenal gland to release the stress hormone cortisol which raises our blood sugar levels.
3.Elevated cortisol over time causes the body to gain weight.
4.Stress triggers the release of inflammation-causing chemicals called cytokines.
5.Stress alters our brain chemical balance leading to disrupted sleep patterns.
6.Stress triggers depression of our immune system which makes us susceptible to infection.
7.Stress alters brain chemical balance leading to depression and anxiety.
Although there are prescription medicines designed to reduce or reverse these effects of stress, they all have risks, side effects, and costs. Nothing beats the best cure for stress: learning to reduce it in our lives. In PART 2 we will explore some useful ways to reduce and eliminate stress in our crazy, modern age. At Forum Health Austin we know how STRESS works to rob us of health and joy and we use safe, effective, and natural strategies to overcome it. Call today for your appointment so we can help you beat stress. 512-420-9300
