Stress

We were not designed for constant stress

Stress is a normal biological response to a demanding situation, for example physical danger, intense exercise, psychological pressures such as a work deadline or exam, environmental conditions or even bad diet. The stress response puts the body in a state of heightened alertness, to prepare the body to take action to either avoid, or deal with, the stressful situation. The physical effects of stress are not meant to last long, however most of us are now finding ourselves in a constant state of stress. And we were never designed to withstand the constant high levels of stress that we are now exposed to on a daily basis.

Almost every one of my clients is being affected by chronic stress, and incorporating strategies to address the effects of stress on their health is an important part of my treatment plans.

The effects of chronic stress on the body

Long-term high levels of stress affect the body in many ways and contributes to all sorts of health problems. Long-term stress can result in:

• increased blood pressure
• increased blood sugar
• insulin resistance
• lowered immunity
• thyroid dysfunction
• hormonal dysfunction
• fatigue
• insomnia
• gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS and dysbiosis
• menstrual cycle dysfunction
• skin and hair problems
• reduced memory and loss of cognitive function
• reduced bone mass and osteoporosis
• autoimmune diseases
• sexual dysfunction
• addictions
• mental health disorders including depression and anxiety
• cardiovascular disease including heart attack and stroke
• obesity
• metabolic syndrome
• type 2 diabetes

It’s therefore never been more important to know how to reduce stress in our lives, and to learn how to manage stress, so that we can lessen the effect it has on us and reduce the risk of damage to our health.

Counteracting chronic stress

Our diet and lifestyle play very important roles in our ability to handle stress. In addition, certain nutrients are used up faster during chronic stress and are therefore needed in greater quantities to keep the body functioning optimally, while others can help us to counteract the effects of stress in our bodies.

I can recommend evidence based nutrients, diet and lifestyle changes to help you manage and reduce stress and its effect. I’ll develop a tailored treatment plan for you with clear, achievable goals and simple, manageable steps to improve your health.