Effects of Stress by Chef Brett

Stress makes everything so much harder and no one is immune to it. Stress comes from a variety of issues work, school, illness, current events, and wide range of other issues. Oftentimes, we are dealing with multiple sources at once. It can be overwhelming or running at a low buzz in the background, but rarely are we free of it entirely. This is a major issue! Without managing stress a chemical, called cortisol, will run rampant in your body.

 This is an issue because cortisol effects just about everything in your life, including:

• Weight: you may experience an increase in weight gain
• Sleep: you may experience trouble falling or staying asleep, feeling unrested when you wake up
• Inflammation: you may experience joint pain and swelling
• Energy levels: you may experience lethargy and tire easier

But do not fret! You CAN manage your stress and cortisol levels. Take back control of your health and life by engaging in healthy activities that counter the effects of stress on your body.
Things that can help alleviate Cortisol:

• Exercise for at least 30 mins, at least 3 times a week.
• Eat well-balanced meals with a variety of vegetables in every color.
• Avoid meals high in sugar and fats.
• Do you best to get to bed at the same time and get as much sleep as possible. Routine is your friend! 
• Practice mindfulness or meditation for at least 5 minutes each morning. (Again, routine!)
• Cut down on caffeine intake and switch to un caffeinated beverages. This may make you feel worse at first, but after your body adjusts you will find you have more energy than you had when drinking coffee!
• Drink 8 glasses of water a day. Water is the answer to so many health concerns.