Cholesterol and Stress
High Stress and High Cholesterol
are Partners in Crime
Cholesterol and stress are related. So. if you have high levels of stress and high cholesterol, you need to make some lifestyle changes. And adopting a healthier lifestyle not only will cut down on your stress levels, but it will also help you feel better physically--and you’ll also feel more relaxed and have more fun!
Handle your stress to lower your cholesterol...Fortunately there are some easy and natural ways to lower cholesterol...
Chronic stress at work can lead to high cholesterol.
Learning how to relax can lower your cholesterol.
Stress As Powerful As Diet
In Influencing Cholesterol Levels
You might find that hard to believe but it’s absolutely true. Your lifestyle and level of negative stress actually influences your cholesterol levels.Several studies, including a study of medical students around exam time, and another of accountants during tax season, have shown significant increases in cholesterol levels during stressful events – when there was little change in diet. In fact, stress raises total cholesterol and LDL levels, in particular. And there are other factors to consider: - Fight or Flight - While we are not cave men, our bodies react to a stressful situation in the same way as bodies did thousands of years ago. They get us ready to fight or run. Your heart speeds up, your blood pressure rises, you have sweaty palms. You become ready for action!
But, because the threat is usually not physical--the chemicals produced and your body’s readiness for action are not used for fighting or running. And cholesterol and stress are relational. - Hormones, Stress and Fat - When you have a Fight or Flight response to stress (whether because of an argument with your spouse or pressure from your boss at work), your body produces two hormones--adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones give you a release of energy, speed up your heart and increase the flow of blood to your brain.
In other words, they get you ready for action. But the downside of having too much of these chemicals in your system, is that they both produce cholesterol. Some cholesterol is necessary for your body to function, but too much can cause you to be more prone to heart disease or stroke. - Personality - Are you a Type A, intense person? If so, you are at greater risk than others who are more relaxed.
- Life Events - When you have a major emotional crisis in your life, such as going through a divorce or losing your spouse, you need to handle the emotional stress, get through it, and move on with your life. Holding on to negative emotions can also cause your cholesterol to rise!
- Anger and Hostility - Numerous studies have shown a correlation between angry people and high cholesterol. On the contrary, learning to manage your anger and learning good coping skills--lowers cholesterol levels.
People who had the LOWEST cholesterol levels in the studies--had the BEST coping skills!
Cholesterol and Stress
What You Can Do
What does that mean for you? It simply means that, while cholesterol and stress are relational, you can help to keep your cholesterol at healthy levels--by learning to cope with stress and anxiety. Even if you have a family history of heart disease, you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or you have a lot of stress in your life! Learn how to cope with stress and anxiety
--and you can handle huge amounts of stress, with no negative consequences! Use natural ways to lower cholesterol, and, you will be healthier, happier and more relaxed!
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Photo courtesy of eyeliam
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