Reaching for a snack to get you through a tough afternoon? You’re not alone. A recent poll of more than 2000 Americans shows that nearly half have gained weight because of stress within the last year, with an average increase of 17 pounds.
More than 43% admit to dealing with their stress in unhealthy ways, like turning to food for comfort, or sitting around ruminating on how awful their lives are.
Dr. Nik Kapoor, a cardiologist with Dignity Health Saint Mary Medical Center in Long Beach, told KNX News’ Margaret Carrero there’s a direct connection between stress and weight gain.
“What stress does is it leads to an increase in cortisol, which is a stress hormone, and cortisol is associated with an increased intake of foods, and there is evidence that our bodies metabolize foods more slowly when they are under stress,” he said. “[Cortisol] also leads to an increase in belly fat, which has a direct relationship with heart disease and type two diabetes.”
Chronic stress has increased for most people since the pandemic, Dr. Kapoor acknowledged, but he says there are healthier ways to cope with it.
“Eat healthy, eat more plant based, avoid unhealthy activities, you know, smoking or alcohol. Or if you do too much caffeine, cut back on that,” he said. He also recommended trying meditation, yoga, and connecting more often with loved ones.
“If stress is not being alleviated with these, then you should consider seeking professional counseling,” he added.
Dr. Kapoor said the most important thing people can do for their stress levels – and their overall health – is to go outside and get more active.
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