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Stress – what effect does stress have on your body and what can you do about it?
We all know that stress is not good for us. But what effect does stress actually have on your body and what can you do to reduce it? That’s what we’re discussing today.
What is stress?
Stress is a form of tension. A certain amount of tension can cause better performance. At those moments we speak of short-term stress. During a job interview, for example, this short-term stress can arise. After the interview, this disappears and you become calm again.
Do you have prolonged stress? Then certain complaints can occur, psychological or physical. If the stress is not reduced, chronic complaints can arise, such as chronic fatigue, anxiety disorders, depression or overstraining of the muscles.
Stress is probably also related to being overweight. This may be because more of the hormone cortisol is produced. Cortisol is related to the fat storage around the abdomen and the preference for sugar- and fat-rich foods. It is therefore important not to have too much stress.
What effect does stress have on diabetes?
- stress can make your blood sugar rise quickly -> hyper
- stress can drop your blood sugar level significantly -> hypo
- the body responds less well to insulin due to the increase in the stress hormone
How can you prevent/reduce stress?
First of all, it is important to have an overview of your situation. Think carefully about where the stress comes from and what you can do about it.
- what gives you energy?
- what costs your energy
- talk to someone or write down your feelings and thoughts
- does it help to make appointments or to organize things differently?
- think about how you can improve the conditions so that it is less stressful
Make sure you relax:
Second of all; provide relaxation. Relaxation allows the body to take a break from stress and to recover. Of course everyone has their own ways to relax, but here are a few ideas you can do for relaxation:
- listen to music
- walk in nature
- workout
- take a warm bath or shower
- get a massage
- read a book
- paint
- do yoga
- meditate
- cook
In addition, it is important to continue to eat healthy, avoid alcohol, sleep on time and also get up on time.
