Know the link between stress and weight gain

Weight gain Stress is a part and parcel of life. Stress can be harmful and can wreak your well-being. It causes depression, anxiety and high blood pressure as well. Furthermore, it can also lead to weight gain. Research shows that high levels of stress can negatively affect one's metabolism leading to weight gain due to elevated cortisol levels. The elevated cortisol levels lead to stress-induced eating, increased cravings for sweets and junk food. This pattern particularly leads to an increase in fat deposition around the midriff. Often individuals tend to overeat in times of stress and that is when the insulin levels remain elevated causing a dip in blood sugar leading to cravings, says Delnaaz T Chanduwadia, Chief Dietician at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre. Here, she decodes the connection between stress and weight gain.fatty foods Chanduwadia says, One may crave for foods high in fat and sugar and such foods can be termed as comfort foods.walking Stress is an inevitable part of life- one cannot avoid it- but one can surely learn to handle it. When one works in awareness, he/ she will be better equipped to make better choices in food. The best way to beat stress is to indulge in activities that are de-stressing- playing an instrument or a sport, talking to a friend, going for a stroll, says Chanduwadia.eat slowly During meals, one should make it a habit to eat slowly so that one can savour each bite and appreciate the different textures of the food. One should also learn to handle cravings. That way you don’t feel deprived and you have satisfied your cravings as well.avoid caffeine Chanduwadia says, Limit your caffeine intake. Caffeine can increase cortisol hence, try to cut down on caffeine or choose decaffeinated beverages.sleep A good night’s sleep helps to cope better with stress. Also, try relaxation techniques like meditation-these help one cope better with stress, shown to reduce cortisol levels and blood pressure, control anxiety and improve cardiovascular health.banana फाइबर से भरपूर केला सेहत के लिए कई तरह से फायदेमंद है। पोटैशियम का बेहतरीन स्त्रोत है केला और यह पाचन को भी आसान बनाता है। केले की ये खूबियां तो हम सब जानते हैं लेकिन क्या आप जानती हैं कि केले को आप अपनी खूबसूरती बढ़ाने के लिए भी इस्तेमाल कर सकती हैं। जानते हैं आखिर कैसे, केला आपकी स्किन और बालों के लिए फायदेमंद है।Cakes and Pastries These heavenly treats contain sugar, refined flour, and unhealthy fats. Indulging too often in them can lead to other health issues and weight gain. Make healthier versions of cakes and pastries with whole-grain flour and maple syrup or honey.