Stress Can be Harmful to Your Hormones, but why?

Learn How To Reduce Stress To Improve Your Hormone Health

Life Style and Stress

Stress is a normal physiological function that we all experience to the ever increasing demands of life. When we experience pressure and strain our bodies react to try and protect us.  In today’s fast living pace – we are experiencing more stress than ever. Perhaps it’s a demanding job, over commitment with our family’s day to day chores or health issues.  These day to day stressors can cause a prolonged feeling of anxiety and worry.

What Are The Affects Of Stress?

Let’s talk about hormones

Cortisol

The main player.  This is one of our main hormones released in a stressful situation.  Cortisol releases glucose and increases your brains response to danger.  This is useful if you’re running away from a burning building – a crucial response that can get you out of danger.

Thyroid Hormones

The thyroid is a vital gland which releases essential hormones for growth, development and your body’s metabolism – prolonged and consistent cortisol can affect thyroid function.  Symptoms might show as weight gain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, achy muscles and joints or brain fog.

Insulin

Insulin takes glucose from the blood and uses it for energy.  Prolonged cortisol can affect this mechanism and affect blood sugar balance in the body.   Symptoms might include weakness, dizziness, low energy or cravings.

Stress and Menopause 

Managing Stress

• BREATHE – deep breathing can reduce the stress response and will help you relax. Breath in (hold for 4 seconds), breathe out (hold for 4 seconds).  
• DIET – refined sugars will increase the stress response on your body.  Look for healthy sweet treats and always check the label on foods, hidden sugars are pesky.
• BLOCK OUT YOUR CALENDAR – yes you DO deserve some time out. Schedule YOU TIME in your calendar to avoid booking things in.  If you make time you will be less likely to find an excuse not to follow through.
• BATHE – soak with essential oils or epsom salts.  This is a wonderful evening ritual.  If you don’t have a bath then use a shower scrub to stimulate your lymphatic system and circulation.
• REDUCE caffeine – it is a stimulant and will heighten senses by  increasing cortisol.  A wonderful alternative is Matcha Tea, which is full of antioxidants and won’t give you the negative effects of caffeine.
• SLEEP HYGIENE – have a solid routine to create a relaxing sleep.  Sleep is fundamental to reduce stress and improve your quality of life.  
• NATURE – Take a break from your desk and go for a walk. It’s a very simple concept that will lower your response to worry and help clear your thoughts.