Over many years of evolution, humans have developed one of the most universal adaptogenic mechanisms — chewing movements induce feelings of stability and calm: if there’s food, everything is alright. Therefore, many people, without realizing it, experience this ancient way of the body combating stress.
But also, there are deeper reasons. In response to any change in internal or external factors, the body responds with hormonal restructuring. The endocrine system plays a crucial role in the body’s functioning and regulates almost all processes within it. If we liken all organs to an orchestra composed of musicians with diverse instruments, the endocrine system acts as the conductor.
The body responds to stress factors through the endocrine system. The “hormonal set” varies depending on the type and level of stress. In response to short-term extreme situations, the body produces several hormones, among which adrenaline predominates. This “energizing” biologically active substance, upon entering the bloodstream, induces a surge of strength, increased blood pressure, accelerated heartbeat and complete loss of appetite. Such feelings are experienced by a person, for example, when parachuting or fleeing danger, a state commonly known as “fight or flight.”
Adrenaline quickly accelerates metabolism, as a lot of energy is needed for activities like parachute jumping or fast running. Periodically experiencing adrenaline rushes is considered beneficial, especially when accompanied by positive emotions. However, frequent and prolonged exposure to stress causes changes in the “hormonal set.” The body adapts to stress and decides to deploy “heavy artillery” in the form of the stress hormone cortisol to combat it. This hormone itself is not bad in small doses, but its excess leads to negative consequences.
One of the most unpleasant “side effects” of cortisol is increased appetite and significant slowing down of metabolism. Metabolism is largely governed by the harsh laws of primitive times when any danger was associated with food scarcity. Therefore, during prolonged “cortisol” stress, metabolism fails to activate genetic memory appropriately and begins to store energy as reserves. These reserves accumulate in the form of the most energy-dense substance — fat.
Thus, almost imperceptibly during prolonged unjustified stress, we begin to gain weight. Moreover, these accumulations are deposited in the most unpleasant places: around the waist and abdomen, surrounding internal organs. If such visceral fat is left unattended, it can lead to serious health problems in the near future. As a result, a person may develop obesity. In such cases, it is necessary to consult a doctor to normalize weight. The specialist will conduct an examination and determine the degree of obesity. In cases of severe obesity, the doctor may prescribe medications (Cetislim, Xenical) that will expedite the weight loss process without harming health.