Stress plays a major role in overall health and can significantly impact weight loss. When stress levels are high, the body releases more cortisol, a hormone that helps manage stress but also influences metabolism, appetite, and fat storage. Short-term spikes in cortisol are normal, but chronic stress can keep cortisol levels elevated, making it harder to lose weight.
Over time, prolonged stress and high cortisol can contribute to adrenal fatigue, leaving the body in a constant state of exhaustion. This can lead to increased cravings for sugar and processed foods, disrupted sleep, and sluggish metabolism—all of which interfere with weight loss progress.
If high stress or burnout is a concern, it’s essential to prioritize stress management as part of your weight loss plan. Your InvisaRED technician may recommend supplements for adapting to stress. But, ultimately incorporating stress relieving activities into your daily life is the most effective. Consider:
Meditation: Meditation doesn’t have to be just sitting in silence. If that’s not up your alley, consider Guided Meditation on YouTube or through an app such as Spotify or Audible. You can also try Walking Meditation, a form of mindfulness practice that involves walking while being aware of the present moment and your surroundings. It can be done anywhere, and it doesn’t require any experience.
Yoga & Breathwork: If you think being social would help decrease stress, try a yoga class! If that doesn’t sound appealing, even doing 2 minutes of breathework 1-3 times per day can help reduce tension and calm the nerves. Try the 4-7-8 technique, designed to reduce anxiety.
Gratitude Practices: Shifts focus from stress and negativity to the positive aspects of life. The more positivity we think about, the more our brain defaults to being in that positive space. This can help lower cortisol.
Therapy or Counseling: Can help provide tools to manage emotional stress. Sometimes, talking to someone unbiased can help.
Socializing & Community Support: Are you a highly social person feeling isolated? Try getting back into a social routine to boost your mood and well being. Reach out to friends, join a group or class or find a new hobby. Having fun will most assuredly improve your sense of well-being.