Can Stress Really Make Me Fat?

     Absolutely! Modern research has proven this conclusively. And it applies to mental as well as physical stress.

There are several reasons why stress can either make us overweight or make it seem impossible to lose fat.

Firstly, there is the obvious 'comfort eating'. Although this behavior is self-defeating and usually creates feelings of guilt and more tension, many people do use food as a 'solution' to stress. It is a very hard habit to break.

But that is just the tip of the iceberg...

Contrary to what many diet centers would have you believe, weight loss is not a simple matter of balancing calories in and calories out, or even of nutrition and exercise. There are other factors that make the process much more complicated. Stress is one of the main ones.

We have not evolved as quickly as our society or technology. Our bodies still use the old "fight or flight" mechanism in response to stress. This applies whether the stress is a major danger or a trifling annoyance. As far as our brains and bodies are concerned: stress is stress.

ALL stress puts us in an 'emergency' state. When we get overwhelmed, traffic jams, parenting, school, bills, work or practically anything can trigger this negative effect.

Under these conditions the body looks for the easiest energy sources - sugars and simple carbohydrates. Fat is last on the list to be burned, because the process is less efficient and takes longer. That is not good for survival, and survival is the priority in these circumstances.

Adrenaline, noradrenaline, cortisol and other 'stress hormones' increase insulin resistance. This can cause an excess of blood sugar to be converted into fat, and also inhibit the breakdown of body fat to energy. Sugar becomes more relied upon as the primary energy source while body fat stays put. Ever wonder where those sugar cravings come from?

There is no doubt about it: Worry, anger, stress and all negative emotions are fattening!

There are several products on the market now that are designed to reduce the excess belly fat that is associated with the stress hormone, cortisol. Basically, they aim to help you relax, and the rest is supposed to take care of itself. Although I cannot recommend the products I do know that the natural relaxation DOES WORK.

Relaxation includes recognizing your needs and taking care of them first. Take your rest and lunch breaks. Don't eat at your desk. Numerous studies show that with regular breaks your efficiency is dramatically increased. You'll get more done in less time, and still have energy to spare. Don't take my word for it ' try it and see it for yourself. You really are not useful to anyone unless you take care of yourself first. Discover your real needs and satisfy them, instead of dulling them with food.

So you see, in order to change the body you first have to change the mind - specifically, the subconscious mind. Although these facts are usually overlooked in most weight loss programs and diets, it is so important that many people only see a shift in their weight loss and metabolism AFTER they learn to control stress, worry and negativity.

The best way to create a natural habit of relaxation and managing stress is to have it implanted in the subconscious. The easiest (if not the only) way to do this is with hypnosis.

Using hypnosis to alter core subconscious habits allows us to do so much more than just increase self control and motivation. Removing stress and other blocks to weight loss opens the doors to success that may have been slammed shut in the past. For so many who have lost all hope, this really provides a refreshing and realistic opportunity.

Hypnosis is becoming more popular every day. Scientifically tested and proven, hypnosis provides a refreshing approach to modifying behavior and tackling problems. Every day, hundreds of thousands of Americans are benefiting from hypnosis. Outdated myths regarding hypnosis have been replaced by its increased use in psychology, medicine, dentistry, law, education, sports and self-improvement. Many millions have successfully used hypnosis.

Imagine possessing incredible willpower, having fun with exercise, easily maintaining the size and figure you desire and also being relaxed and confident.

Why imagine? Anyone can enjoy the benefits of hypnosis. Remember that when hypnotized you are awake and in full control. It is 100% safe and very enjoyable!

From now on, remember you must relax and change the mind before changing the body. Then you can finally be successful, and STAY SUCCESSFUL.

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