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Stress
A certain amount of stress is normal but continued exposure to stress becomes a problem and inevitably leaves us feeling overwhelmed. Overwork, lack of sleep, physical illness, excessive alcohol are all common physical factors that contribute to ongoing stress whilst psychological issues including depression and anxiety will also make the problem worse.
When we are poorly nourished, the effects of stress become even more pronounced. In the short term, stress triggers the "fight or flight" response. The hormone adrenalin is released which increases heart and breathing rate. During the early stages of chronic stress hormones such as DHEA and cortisol are released from the adrenal glands. A state of continual stress eventually exhausts our adrenal glands and leads to imbalances between cortisol and DHEA. This results in decreased energy production, blood sugar problems, increased weight gain and reduced immunity.
Nutrition is extremely important in helping the body cope with prolonged exposure to stress. Nutrients such as vitamin C, magnesium and zinc can often become depleted during times of ongoing stress. Focusing on a diet that helps to balance blood sugar, supports energy production and calms the nervous system can have a profound effect on helping the body cope when exposed to stress. To find out more about your levels of stress hormones and how they affect you consider the adrenal stress index test.
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