The first major theory that defined the relationship between mind and body was set forward by philosopher Rene Descartes in the 17th century. His theory proposed that the mind and the body operated separately in a relationship he called “dualism.” Since then, scientific advances have proven Descartes wrong: the mind and body are very much intertwined and dependant on each other. One of the primary ways the mind affects the body (and vice versa) is stress. From the mind, the stress is psychological. Coming from the body, stress is physical. Stress is a fact of human existence. Without stress, we wouldn’t move in order to avoid physical stress only to become psychologically stressed by that condition!
With the body and mind so closely connected, we can understand how those who have been subjected to trauma (e.g. 9/11) can very easily see stress manifested in their bodies. We can define stress as a factor that requires a person to adapt or adjust. As already noted, stress is normal, but when stressors are placed upon us so that we cannot adapt properly, we can experience physical and psychological problems that stem from our inability to cope.
Some believe that stress inhibits the appetite and is therefore most closely associated with weight loss. While this is potentially true in some cases, evidence suggests that the link between stress and the endocrine system (hormones), can result in either weight gain or weight loss. What happens to a specific person under high stress is very unpredictable. Furthermore, stress is a major contributor to conditions such as depression which also have effects on weight loss. Since changes in weight are a significant indicator of depression stress in reality can be closely tied to either weight gain or weight loss depending on the individual.
Dietary supplements that are supposed to lower hormone levels in effort to prevent weight gain have been marketed, but have not been validated by any reputable medical studies. Such an approach in itself is somewhat risky because the hormonal response to stress varies between individuals and therefore cannot be treated in a univeral manner (if an adequate treatment were available).
Knowing that stress can be responsible for changes in weight, what should be the standard approach to people who are over stressed? The clear answer is exercise. Regardless of whether a person is inclined to lose weight or gain weight under stress, exercise has been proven to be a viable remedy. By engaging in routine exercise, we can actually build resistance to both psychological and physical stress, and thus be at less risk of experiencing stress related weight changes or illnesses. In the event that an overstressed individual has a hormonal proclivity toward weight gain, exercise can help mitigate it, helping that person maintain a consistent weight while enjoying the stress relief offered by an exercise regimen. What makes exercise even more vital is that it has been documented to be effective in the treatment for and prevention of depression further reducing the risk of stress related changes in body weight.www.fatlossfactor.com
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