The Health Benefits of Stress Reduction: Nutrition, Exercise, and Sleep Tips for Stress Relief

Effectively managing stress is key to a healthy lifestyle. Stress isn't just a mental state. In fact, constant stress can lead to increased levels of cortisol - the "stress hormone" - which in turn, can affect almost every system in your body.

Below are just some of the ways stress can be harmful to your health:

• Weight gain and obesity - Stress often triggers cravings for high-calorie, high-sugar comfort foods, which can lead to more stress on our bodies. Instead, choose a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It's also a good idea to restrict caffeine and alcohol consumption and to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
• Weakened immune system - Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it less effective at protecting the body from diseases. It can also worsen existing immune issues and contribute to inflammation, which impacts overall immunity.
• Cardiovascular issues - Stress can contribute to cardiovascular diseases such as increased levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, and blood pressure. Chronic stress can also lead to unhealthy habits like smoking, overeating, and lack of physical activity, all of which are risk factors for heart disease.
• Mental health issues - When left unmanaged or chronic, stress can lead to anxiety and depression, irritability, fatigue and emotional exhaustion, affecting mental health and overall well-being.

Physical Activity and Stress Management:

Exercise helps burn off stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, while at the same time triggering the release of endorphins, or natural mood enhancers. For the best results, try to schedule regular workouts such as a daily walk or a morning yoga routine. Adding variety to your workouts also helps, by keeping your body and mind engaged.

Restorative Sleep Helps Reduce Stress:

Getting enough quality sleep plays an important role in reducing stress. Establishing good sleeping habits like sticking to a consistent bedtime routine and eliminating distractions like light, noise, and other stimulating activities before bedtime can lead to better sleep quality and reduced stress.

The Power of Mindfulness in Stress Management:

Engaging in activities like yoga or tai chi can improve strength and flexibility while promoting mindfulness by focusing on breathing and movements. Deep breathing exercises, along with mindfulness meditation, can also aid in relaxation. Calming activities can help ease stress too. Examples include: keeping a stress journal, setting aside leisure time to yourself (e.g., taking a warm bath or getting a pedicure), taking a walk outside in nature, reading a book, or listening to relaxing music.

While these suggestions are all positive steps in the right direction, change can be overwhelming and often leaves us wondering how and where to start.

Click here for helpful suggestions on setting reasonable goals toward making important lifestyle changes.

Effectively managing stress through a combination of healthy nutrition, exercise, mindfulness activities, and quality sleep can benefit your overall health and well-being.

And remember, when it comes to making positive changes, diligence and patience are key! Take the time to write down your goals and review them regularly to help make long-term positive changes and create a healthier, stronger, happier you!

To find a doctor who is right for you, visit our provider directory or call the Redeemer Health Physician Referral Service at 1-800-818-4747.

Did you know, nutritional counseling services are available through a partnership with Simplex Health? To learn more, visit simplexhealth.com or call 1-877-842-2425.