Stress Belly is not a Myth

Are you concerned about your growing belly size? Stress could be contributing to your growing belly. Learn more about stress and how to get rid of it.

Many of us have been stuck at home since the pandemic. It hasn’t been productive for everyone. It is really a stressful time in history due to rising unemployment and sad news around the globe. Many people who stay at home may notice a change in their belly and find that their clothes became “smaller”. You’re here to find out why.

Unexpected growth is a result of stress. Read on to find out if stress is a contributing factor. Also you will learn how to quickly get rid of stress.

CORTISOL: THE REASON FOR THE STRESS BELLY

Our adrenal glands secrete cortisol, a stress hormone. It activates the ‘fight or flight’ response in stressful situations. It helps us deal with high-intensity issues by supplying glucose to our bodies.

Normally the hormone levels should return to normal after the event. This is where modern life can interfere. There are many reasons to stress these days. Modern world can be stressful, whether it’s from a bad relationship, peer pressure, unemployment, or any other reason. Our bodies are subject to high levels of cortisol, which can lead to constant stress. This causes anxiety and sleeplessness.

Stress can lead to low immunity, increased body weight, and elevated blood pressure. You might also find your stomach protruding from your shirt if you enjoy eating fatty snacks.

Cortisol may play a role in your fat belly building up in different ways. First, cortisol releases fat from its ‘storage’ and places it around your belly. This also leads to increased cortisol production.

Cortisol, which can cause high insulin levels, can lead to cells becoming starved of energy. Our bodies go into high hunger mode and overeat. One thing is certain: extra glucose becomes fat.

HOW DO YOU CONFIRM YOUR BELLY FAT IS CAUSED BY STRESS?

Being overweight is one thing. But you need to be aware of the signs that stress can cause belly fat. These are the symptoms to look out for:

1. YOU ARE ALWAYS HUNGRY

Our appetite naturally rises when we are stressed. You should be worried if you feel the urge to eat more than you used to have for breakfast or dinner. If you feel the need to snack on sugary snacks throughout your day, it is a sign that you are not alone.

2. YOU ARE INCREDIBLY HUNGRY AFTER EXERCISING

Do you feel hungry after a workout? Are you so hungry that your typical meal is not satisfying? Cortisol imbalance could be the reason. You might be working out too hard and, in turn, increasing your cortisol levels.

3. YOU GET OVERWHELMED EASILY

There are reasons to be concerned if you become easily upset or are quickly triggered by something that you don’t enjoy. Cortisol imbalance is when you feel one more problem always, even if it’s not a big problem.

HOW TO LOSE THAT FAT FROM YOUR BELLY

If you feel stressed, don’t despair. It is possible to reduce stress. These are some of the ways for it:

1. EAT MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Vegetables and fruits are rich in vitamins and vital nutrients. They are low in calories and high in fibre. You may think that fruits have a high sugar content. They contain less sugar than juices, which is true. Fruits are a great way to pack some sugar but not exceed the recommended daily intake.

A great way to get started is to fill half of your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables. You can also eat vegetables in place of potatoes or pasta.

2. INCREASE PROTEIN INTAKE

Protein foods are more satisfying than other food options. Protein foods will stop you from eating for long periods after one meal. Also, protein helps to reduce cravings. Besides, eating more protein means less snacking. People who are trying to lose belly fat will find protein-rich foods ideal.

Each meal should contain at least one to two protein-rich ingredients. You can find protein-rich foods in legumes, fruits and soybeans as well as dry fruits such almonds and walnuts.

3. SLOW DOWN ALCOHOL

This might not be an easy step to take if you are a regular drinker. This is one of the best ways to reduce stress. You can see improvement within a month if you reduce your alcohol intake.

Uncontrolled weight gain can be caused by alcohol. Once alcohol is in our bodies, it becomes fat. If you are feeling stressed, avoid alcohol.

4. EXERCISE REGULARLY

This is an obvious one. Your health will improve if you are more active. This is also true for your belly fat. Exercising vigorously can help you burn fat. Muscle building helps keep glucose extraction active and lowers inflammation. Regular exercise will make your stress belly disappear gradually.

Cardio is not as effective as weight training. Pull-ups and kettlebell workouts are the most effective workouts.

5. SLEEP ENOUGH

Do you not feel refreshed and rejuvenated after a good night’s sleep? Sleep helps reduce stress. In other words, sleep lowers cortisol levels.

Sleeping for less than 6 hours a night can increase stress hormones. This is why it is important to get at least 6.5 hours sleep each night. This helps to keep stress hormones under control, and prevents further fat accumulation.

FINAL WORDS

You should now be able to identify if your belly is the result of stress. These steps can be implemented if so. They will not only help you get rid of stress but also make your life easier.