October 30
Stress Weighs Heavy
	It may not be a coincidence that there’s more stress in our lives than ever before and as a nation, our rate of obesity is increasing. In fact, research has shown that there is a connection between stress and obesity. When we're exposed to a stressful situation the brain sends out the stress hormone cortisol which triggers a chain reaction…causing certain cells to retain more fat—fat the body uses as fuel for the fight or flight response. That worked fine for our ancestors, but the brain can't tell the difference between survival stress and chronic daily stress, so the body continues to store fat. Here are some ways you can fight back: Exercise can stop the cycle by producing beta endorphins, hormones that block the stress hormones. Diet is also key. Eat lean protein and eliminate starches, especially after 5pm. And most importantly, take steps to control the stress. You can use the resources cited below to get started.
	What if you’re someone who eats during stress—isn’t that a double whammy—more calories being turned into fat? Absolutely. That’s why it’s important to direct your attention to the stress that causing you to eat more rather than weight loss. The good news is that exercise and diet can help with both reducing the stress and the weight.
	Resources and References: Stress-Coping with Everyday Problems National Mental Health Association www.nmha.org/infoctr/factsheets/41.cfm How Stress Affects the Body American Medical Women's Association www.amwa-doc.org/publications/WCHealthbook/stressamwa-ch09.html