Stress is more than just a mental burden—it can wreak havoc on your diet and weight loss efforts. When you're stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that, in high levels, can slow your metabolism and increase your appetite. This combination makes it easier to gain weight even if you're eating the same amount of food. Cravings for sugary or high-fat comfort foods tend to spike when stress hits, leading to unhealthy eating patterns that undermine your progress. When you are stressed and realize you're turning to food for comfort, individually portioned shakes, bars, snacks and entrees from North Star Diet may help to remind you of a portion size and not handling to much food which can lead to overeating.
But it’s not just the cravings; stress can also reduce your motivation to exercise and make it harder to stick to your healthy eating plans. Feeling overwhelmed can lead to emotional eating, which further compounds the issue. All these factors combined can sabotage your diet goals, leaving you frustrated and feeling defeated.
Tips to Handle Stress and Stay on Track:
- Practice Mindful Eating: Focus on what you're eating and savor each bite. This helps you become more aware of your body's hunger cues and prevents overeating.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. Even a short walk can help reduce stress levels and boost your mood.
- Get Enough Sleep: Lack of sleep increases cortisol levels, making it harder to manage stress and stick to your diet.
- Incorporate Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help manage stress and keep you centered.
By managing your stress effectively, you can prevent it from sabotaging your diet and stay focused on your health goals.