Stress and Exercise

Question: I have a lot of stress in my life right now and because of it I have basically quit exercising and I am eating too much and gaining weight.  What can I do to get out of this downward spiral? 

Answer: The truth of the matter is, exercising is an excellent way to fight stress. The stress cycle is normal for the body, but when it is repeated too frequently and too intensely it begins to affect our overall health.  A body that is constantly subjected to stress will have higher blood pressure, tense muscles and digestive problems. Continual stress also taxes the immune system so it becomes harder for us to fight off disease. Eventually, too much stress leads to illness and exhaustion.Try to avoid food when you feel stressed. The tendency for many people is to eat too much of the wrong things when under stress. You want to eat only when you feel calm and under control, and when your digestive system is functioning smoothly.So get up off that couch and start working out. It may be tough at first, but once you get started you will find yourself blowing off steam and feeling better and better. This is the way to start getting out of that downward spiral.

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