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Beat Stress and Lose Weight
1.
Exercise. Working out, no matter how intensely instantly
reduces stress and cortisol levels. Lift weights or go for a walk or two during
the day to manage stress.
2.
Eat slowly. When we’re stressed, we eat faster. So it goes to
reason that by slowing down at mealtime we’ll not only eat less before feeling
full, but reduce our cortisol output.
3. Don’t Diet.
Strict dieting can actually increase cortisol levels by 18%. When you’re hungry,
you’re stressed. Dieting can also lower blood sugar which will intensify
cravings. Eat healthy, well-balanced meals and avoid fad or restrictive diets.
4. Give In to Cravings.
Indulge in your favorite dessert or snack occasionally (but avoid binging) to
keep cortisol under control and your happiness in check.
5.
Limit Caffeine. If drink caffeine while stressed, it can raise
your cortisol output an additional 25%. The more coffee or caffeine you consume
over the course of the day, the higher your cortisol rises.
6.
Eat a Healthy Breakfast. Eating a breakfast high in B vitamins,
vitamin C, calcium and magnesium (think OJ, grapefruit, whole grain cereal with
strawberries or whole wheat bagel with peanut butter and yogurt) will reduce
cortisol levels and decrease food cravings later in the day.
7. Sleep Well.
Last but certainly not least, getting enough sleep may be the best way to beat
stress and lose weight. Sleep deprivation is a major stressor and can increase
your appetite for sweet and salty snacks by 23%. Get 7-8 hours of shut-eye a
night and you’ll feel better and eat less. |
