Corporate Wellness Blog

Stress Makes Your Stomach Think You’re Eating A High-Fat Diet

by Punctual Abstract

We have bad news and also good news. First, the bad news: a recent study suggests that stress could trick your stomach into thinking you are eating a high-fat diet. The good news? You can do something about it!

The study, which was conducted by BYU professor of microbiology and molecular biology Laura Bridgewater, found that when female mice were exposed to stress, their gut microbiota – the microorganisms responsible for digestive and metabolic health – came to resemble that of mice eating high-fat diets. So, you may be wondering: if this study was done on mice, why does it matter for humans?

Stress, specifically the stress hormone cortisol, can cause lots of health problems. This study is the first evidence that it can also lead to reduced gut health, and in turn poor overall health. According to Bridgewater, “In society, women tend to have higher rates of depression and anxiety, which are linked to stress. “This study suggests that a possible source of the gender discrepancy may be the different ways gut microbiota responds to stress in males vs. females.”

So, what can be done to reduce stress and keep your tummy healthy, balanced, and working like a well-oiled, calorie burning machine?

How to Reduce Stress

• Exercise Reduces Levels Of Cortisol, Both Short-Term And In The Long Run, While Also Releasing Mood-Enhancing Endorphins In Your Brain. Read Our Blog For A Few Daily Exercise Tips.
• Family And Friends Provide The Best Medicine For The Soul. In Our Busy Lives, We Forget How Vital Human Connection Is For Our Well Being. Make A Point To Spend More Time With Those You Love!
• Meditation Is Founded On The Principle Of Mindfulness, Experiencing And Appreciating The Moment You Are Living In. Numerous Studies Have Shown The Amazing Effects Of Meditation On Mood And Even Physical Health.
• Coffee Is A Stimulant That Can Increase Stress And Anxiety In Certain Individuals. If You Drink Coffee, Write About Your Daily Mood For A Week And Then Stop Drinking Coffee. Continue Journaling To See If Your Overall Mood Has Improved.

At Punctual Abstract, we fulfill all the title and abstracting needs of our clients while promoting the health of our employees and their families with our Corporate Wellness Program. Call us at 800-588-0046 to speak with our team today!