Lower Stress-Lower Weight?


(NAPSI)-(November 30, 2003) - Don't stress out over your weight: That's the message from medical researchers, who say stress is one of the biggest factors in bigger waistlines.

The stress of day-to-day living can trigger the release of a hormone called cortisol into our blood stream. Over time, chronically elevated levels of cortisol causes the body to gain and retain weight. Cortisol tells your brain that you're hungry, so you eat more-and it tells your fat cells to store as much fat as they can, especially in the abdomen, says Dr. Shawn Talbott, author of the "Cortisol Connection."

To help Americans deal with stress that can lead to weight gain, Dr. Talbott developed a five-step program called SENSE. Some tips to help you:

. Stress Management: Take some time for yourself, doing things that you enjoy. Maintaining a good support system of family, friends and professional counselors can be important components of coping.

. Exercise: Being active is an effective outlet for stress. Try to exercise 30 minutes per day, three to four days a week.

. Nutrition: Eat right. Cut down your use of caffeine and other stimulants. Eat more fruits and vegetables teamed with whole grains and lean cuts of meat, poultry and fish.

. Supplementation: A daily multivitamin can help alleviate the negative effects of stress. Dr. Talbott has also formulated an all-natural dietary supplement that works with your body's metabolism to control cortisol levels and help you lose weight. Called CortiSlim, it can boost your metabolism naturally, suppress your appetite, help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels to reduce cravings, and help you relax and sleep better. To find out more about CortiSlim, call 1-888-238-8442 or visit www.cortislim.com.

. Evaluate: Find a weight loss/stress reduction program that works for you. "Join a yoga class, take the dog for a walk, or just talk about your feelings to a group of friends," says Dr. Talbott. "Just the fact that you're taking control of your situation means that your body will respond more favorably to stressful events."

Weight gain can be a common response to stress.

Copyright ©2003 content, MenopauseRx, Inc. The information provided by MenopauseRx, Inc. is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health-care provider. Please consult your health-care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.