Ongoing stress results in the production of cortisol, a steroid hormone produced from the adrenal glands. Cortisol mainly functions to regulate energy production and mobilization; it does so by selecting the right type and amount of macronutrients (carbohydrate, fat or protein) that is needed by the body to meet the physiological
demands (eg. stress) that is placed upon it. This hormone mobilizes energy by moving the body’s fat stores from one location to another to provide fuel for muscle tissues.
Under stressful conditions, cortisol can provide the body with protein for energy by
converting amino acids in muscle into useable carbohydrate (glucose) in the liver.
Additionally, it can move fat from storage relocate it to fat cell deposits deep in the
abdomen. Cortisol is also known to facilitate the growth of mature fat cells.
Animal and human studies have demonstrated that cortisol injections are associated with
increased appetite, cravings for sugar and weight gain. It has been postulated that
cortisol may directly influences food consumption by binding to receptors in the brain
that triggers an individual to eat food that is high in fat and/or sugar. Cortisol may also
indirectly influence appetite by regulating other chemicals that are released during stress
such as corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH), leptin, and neuropeptide Y. High levels
of neuropeptide Y and CRH and reduced levels of leptin have been shown to stimulate
appetite.
Addressing the underlying cause of a condition, a fundamental principle in naturopathic
medicine is essential in considering treatment options. A good place to start is to
identify the stressor and either remove it, or find more effective ways to manage the
stress such as exercise or a meditative practice. Herbal preparations known as nervines
and adaptogens can also help to modify your stress response and adapt to stress in a more
effective manner while nutritional counseling will help you to make appropriate dietary
modifications.
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