Feeling stressed is never a good thing. In fact, anxiety can cause a number of health problems that may surprise you. Did you know that even your abdomen can be affected by too much stress? If you’re wondering what is and how can I get rid of it, we’re here to speak to an expert and explain the details. Next, don’t miss getting rid of your balloon belly with these free weight exercises.
What is stress belly?
Mike Ball, MD, MPH, ALMRo’s director of medical content and education and member of our medical expert panel, explains: Eat this instead of that! The term “stress belly” is a term, not a medical condition. But it’s the real deal, and sometimes represents the fat that builds up around your abdomen due to high stress levels.
This is how stress belly occurs. According to Dr. Bohl, when his levels of stress rise, the adrenal glands release large amounts of a hormone known as cortisol. The functions of cortisol are to store fat in the abdomen and to stimulate appetite. So when you’re stressed, you actually create a calorie overload and unwanted belly fat, resulting in the dreaded stress belly.
How can I relieve stress?
Dr. Ball says that if elevated cortisol levels are contributing to excess fat in the abdomen, the main key to getting rid of that stress belly is controlling stress levels, which takes precedence over diet. Putting weight loss at the top of the list doesn’t mean food choices or calorie cuts aren’t important. It simply means that managing stress is the first step.
Unfortunately, attempts to target that waist circumference are unattainable, notes Dr. Ball. You can’t choose. can All you have to do is adopt some habits that will help you lose weight overall. Here are some helpful tips on how to do this.
1. Cut out or drastically cut down on alcohol.
Dr. Ball advises: .”
Alcohol adds a large amount of calories to your diet. In addition, it is associated with higher levels of visceral fat, the fat that envelops the internal organs.
2. Choose a healthy plant-based diet.
Another nutritional step is to transform your diet into a healthy plant-based diet of fruits and vegetables. Fiber is a great ally in dieting because it makes you feel full and helps you eat less.
3. Eating in a calorie deficit.
“Generally, you burn more calories than you take in, so it’s important to eat in a calorie deficit,” says Dr. Ball. Additionally, avoid foods high in carbohydrates such as French fries, pasta, and bread, or consume them in much smaller amounts.
4. Reduce the size of your plate.
Choose smaller plates overall. This trick really works! Start eating small portions on small plates. For real I want more
5. Take time to eat.
This is easy. Just relax and eat at a slow pace. “It takes time for your body to recognize when you’re full,” says Dr. Ball.
6. Increase your protein consumption.
Maintaining a high-protein diet (consisting of lean proteins such as tofu and chicken) can also help you lose weight, as protein consumption builds muscle mass. Consume more calories.
7. Choose a less sweet lifestyle.
It’s important to reduce your intake of sugary drinks such as sodas and juices. This is a sure way to cut calories you may not be aware you’re adding. Water is always a great choice! Plus, just think of all the money you could save on your grocery bill.
8. Add leafy greens, dark chocolate, avocado, and olive oil to your shopping list.
Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as olive oil and avocado, may contain beneficial anti-inflammatory effects, and foods high in magnesium content, such as leafy greens and dark chocolate, also reduce stress levels. It may help lower.
Alexa Meraldo
Alexa is Mind + Body Deputy Editor of Eat This, Not That! and oversees the M+B channel, providing readers with compelling fitness, wellness, and self-care topics.Read more about Alexa
