The old adage, “what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger” may not be true if we’re talking about stress. Chronic stress wreaks havoc on our health. Just in case you’re in doubt, here’s a list of the most common side effects of chronic stress:
- Acne
- Addictions
- Anxiety
- Alzheimer’s
- Bone Loss
- Cancer (due to reduced immune system)
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Digestive problems
- Heart disease (stress actually creates plague in the arteries)
- Infertility
- Inflammation
- Impaired immunity
- Insulin resistance
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Metabolic syndrome
- Memory and concentration impairment
- Osteoporosis
- Reduced libido
- Senile dementia
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Stomach Ulcers
- Strokes
- Weight gain (stress encourages fat to be retained in the body, especially around the abdomen)
We understand that daily stress is unavoidable, but when you’re chronically stressed out, it is likely causing damage both physical and mental. It’s time to make some lifestyle changes. Consider your diet – are you eating healthy meals? What about exercise – are you getting enough? Trying to get by on a few hours of sleep at night? You may not be able to control the stress in your life, but you can certainly control your response. If you suffer from any of the above side effects, now is the time to do something for yourself.