Cortisol is a hormone released by our adrenal glands. Cortisol is responsible for the regulation of metabolism, blood pressure, and it also helps our body during a stress response. When we are under stress, our body goes into flight-or-fight mode. During such conditions, cortisol is released and it provides energy to the body.
Cortisol Weight Gain:
Researchers have found out that high Cortisol levels and weight gain are closely related. How does Cortisol cause weight gain? After the stress response, our body calms down. The Cortisol now increases the appetite to replace the lost energy. As appetite is increased, we tend to crave high calorie and sugary foods, which can add to the calories and cause weight gain.
In addition to the increased appetite, researchers have also found out that high cortisol can lead to accumulation of fat around the abdominal area. Cortisol may trigger accumulation of fat to compensate for the lost energy. This can, in turn, cause obesity.
Cortisol Blockers:
Cortisol blockers are now available in the market, which promise to block the cortisol and control weight gain. However, experts opine that these medicines can be harmful rather than beneficial. Blocking cortisol can hamper the body’s functioning.
According to experts, the best way to deal with cortisol weight gain is to follow relaxation techniques through meditation or other means. This can help you to calm down, decrease the stress and lower the cortisol production. Exercising is also a great way to relax.
High cortisol levels have been linked to weight gain and also depression. So, make sure you minimize stress in your life as it can result in weight gain. Also try to exercise at least 30 minutes daily — this can help you to relax and also lower the body weight.
How Drinking Water is Beneficial?
Cortisol hormone alone is not responsible for rise in the craving for food in obese people. Depression which is common among them also leads to eating disorders. As these people face social discrimination every day, they have very low self esteem. Knowledge of activities which can keep them happy are low. Eating tasty junk food and drinking energy drinks provide them some pleasure. But these low nutritional value foods make them addictive soon.
Drinking water regularly can treat the disorder of over eating in obese people. It is because water is a natural appetite suppressant. It can decrease the urge to over eat by a fair degree. Moreover the brain does not have any mechanism to distinguish between hunger and thirst. Sometimes, the body actually is thirsty. But obese people feel hungry and eat junk food. Drinking water in such moments can be extermely beneficial. Obese people should drink water first if they feel hungry. This simple practice can prove very beneficial.
