The Truth About Stress

Is stress good or bad? The simple answer is, “Both.”

Stress Can Be Positive

“Good” stress (eustress) can be identified as being the excitement, nervousness, or worry over a temporary obstacle that is inherently manageable. Good stress notifies us that something requires our attention and provides us with motivation and inspiration. It even refreshes our flight or flight response, keeping us alert and safe. Basically, if it makes us feel invigorated, challenged and motivated, it is probably good stress.

Stress Can Be Negative

“Bad” stress (distress) can be identified as being chronic, ongoing stress that often results in a lack of drive or inability to complete daily tasks. In other words, if it leaves us tired, worn out, and unenthusiastic it is probably bad stress.

So, why talk about this? Because negative stress has undesirable effects on our bodies, our health, and our relationships.

The Effects of Stress on the Body

The moment the stress response is activated, this happens in the body:

• Heart rate speeds up

• Blood pressure increases

• Respiration quickens

• Adrenaline, non-adrenaline and cortisol released

• Blood flow is routed away from digestion and to the arms and legs

• Digestion system shuts down

Short term, these responses are not harmful.

Long term exposure to negative stress creates chemical changes in the body

which often results in illnesses like the following:

• Weight gain (especially in the belly)

• Decreased nutrient absorption

• Increased nutrient excretion

• Immune problems, skin disorders, nutrient deficiencies, and digestive distress.

• High blood pressure.

• Ability to burn calories is diminished.

• Decreased in metabolic activity.

• Stress by itself will raise LDL levels.

• Heart disease.

• Lower sex drive, low energy, decreased muscle mass.

• Increase in inflammation

• Constipation, a risk factor in diseases of the colon.

• Food allergies, sensitivities, and various disease conditions.

• Digestive upset.

• Increased food sensitivities, allergies, and leaky gut.

• Decrease in growth hormone: A key hormone in growing, healing and rebuilding body tissues; helps to burn fat and build muscle.

• Diabetes

• Gastric reflux (also known as heartburn).

• Premature aging of the body

• Increase in risk of osteoporosis

• Chronic fatigue.

If you’re ready to decode how stress is affecting your life and relationships,

then NOW is the perfect time to Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation.

808-868-1877

Rebekah Lawes