Stressful episodes can cause your body to go into survival mode: your metabolism slows down, more calories are stored (for fuel) and cortisol and leptin - the stress hormones - are dumped in the abdominal region, adding to weight gain.The waist-expanding effect of stress was recently confirmed by a study published in the American Journal Of Epidemiology. The researchers also found that women’s waistlines were affected by more types of stress than men’s; as well as money and job problems, women’s weight was inflamed by relationship difficulties and feeling trapped in their lives.
Warning signs: Craving carbohydrate foods such as pasta, crisps and chocolate can be a sign that someone is stressed. These foods increase levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which has a calming effect on mood.
What to do: Stress reduction and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can be helpful. Regular exercise is the best approach, as it not only reduces stress by increasing levels of feelgood hormones (endorphins), but also burns calories.