2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-22 03:30
We know that stress is bad for your he alth and when it is chronic, it affects much more than our quality of life. It also affects our cells.
The molecules released in our body are determined by our emotions. According to renowned neuroscientist and pharmacologist Candace Pert, during an emotional change, a mixture of peptides moves through our body and brain, and it changes the chemistry of every cell.
The effects of chronic stress
- Decreases neurons and can cause cognitive problems.
- Increases the susceptibility of infections and influences their severity. It also weakens the immune system.
- It's inflammatory. It increases the risk of allergies, cardiovascular diseases and autoimmune diseases.
- Promotes cell oxidation, which slows down energy production.
- Slows down detoxification and elimination of fat.
- Raises blood pressure and artherosclerosis.
- Stress is responsible for 90% of miscarriages that occur in the first three weeks of pregnancy.
- Stress is associated with loss of bone mineral density in womenmenopausal.
- Increases acne.
- Increases tumors and metastases.
A test to measure cortisol levels
Sometimes it can be useful to measure the level of cortisol in our body, to know how our body reacts to stress. In naturopathy, we offer a saliva test that measures an individual's cortisol level. The test involves collecting a total of 4 saliva samples, taken at different times of the day. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. Note that the costs of this analysis can vary between $200-250.
The test results inform how the body adapts to stress and reflect the he alth of our adrenal glands. Indeed, these endocrine glands produce adrenaline and cortisol, two hormones that help the body respond to stress, and their state indicates in which phase of adaptation the subject is.
Solutions to reduce stress
- Meditate
- Listen to music
- Practice heart coherence
- Get enough sleep
- Exercise
- Breathe deeply
- Do gratitude exercises
- Get a massage regularly
- Do Yoga
- Do acupuncture treatments
- Laugh (laughing lowers cortisol levels by 67%)
- Eat a balanced diet
- Avoid sugar, caffeine and alcohol
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You could also opt for adaptogenic plants, that is, medicinal plants that increase resistance to stress, concentration, performance and endurance. Certain plants, such as Ashwaganda, Theanine (green tea extracts) and Rhodiola have proven their effectiveness. Taking quality multi-vitamins and minerals also positively affects an individual's stress level.
Everyone is subject to a greater or lesser level of stress. The fact remains that it is harmful and that it plays a major role in the appearance of many he alth problems. It is essential to choose the right tools to reduce the effects. Laugh, meditate, introduce herbs, multivitamins and minerals to your lifestyle, etc. No matter. What matters is helping your adrenal glands and finding the balance that is yours. If you think you need help, reach out to your licensed naturopath. Thanks to the salivary cortisol analysis test, he will be able to give you personalized recommendations.
