Stress might be more important to health than diet. A 2008 research article published in the Malaysian Journal of Medical Science noted, “Research shows that almost every system in the body can be influenced by chronic stress. When chronic stress goes unreleased, it suppresses the body’s immune system and ultimately manifests as illness.” While diet undeniably plays a critical role in maintaining optimal health, the impact of psychological stress on the body’s physiological processes should not be underestimated. Even individuals adhering to a healthy diet may experience significant health consequences if they are constantly exposed to high-stress levels.
It is essential to recognize the interconnectedness of the mind and body and prioritize strategies for stress management and psychological well-being alongside dietary choices. Engaging in relaxation techniques, regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and seeking social support are effective ways to mitigate the negative effects of stress on physical health. Integrating such approaches can help individuals maintain a balanced and holistic approach to their overall well-being.
Psychological stress has been recognized as having a substantial impact on physical health, often surpassing the detrimental effects of diet alone. Research has shown that chronic and persistent stress can significantly contribute to the development and progression of various physical health problems. By contrast, short-term stress, also known as acute stress, can indeed have benefits for overall health. When faced with a brief and manageable stressful situation, the body’s stress response kicks in, triggering a cascade of physiological changes that help us respond effectively. Here are a few ways in which short-term stress can be beneficial:
When we experience stress, our bodies release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which trigger a cascade of physiological responses including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and heightened inflammation. These stress responses, when consistently activated over long periods, can lead to a range of negative health outcomes.
One of the primary ways psychological stress affects physical health is by disrupting the body’s immune system. Prolonged stress weakens immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections, slower healing, and increased risk of autoimmune disorders. Thus, individuals under chronic stress may find themselves falling ill more frequently and struggling to recover effectively.
Furthermore, stress has been linked to cardiovascular problems, including hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. The constant activation of the stress response can contribute to elevated blood pressure, heightened arterial inflammation, and the development of atherosclerosis. Over time, these factors increase the likelihood of cardiovascular complications.
Stress can also disrupt various physiological systems, such as the digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal issues like stomach ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other digestive disorders. Additionally, chronic stress has been associated with disrupted sleep patterns, compromised mental health, and an increased risk of developing mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression, all of which can further impact physical well-being.
The research article also stated that ” Emotional stress is a major contributing factor to the six leading causes of death in the United States: cancer, coronary heart disease, accidental injuries, respiratory disorders, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide.”
If this resonates with you perhaps it’s time to take stock of your daily activities and what drives you: Ask yourself how much of what you do every day is causing or adding to chronic stress. While it can be difficult to live a stress-free life minimizing chronic stress can go a long way. We can typically help you reduce stress levels in just a few short meetings.
References
Salleh MR. Life event, stress and illness. Malays J Med Sci. 2008 Oct;15(4):9-18. PMID: 22589633; PMCID: PMC3341916.
