Stress Management For Heath: 5 Ways To Reduce Biological Risk

Stress is a common phenomenon that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It is a natural response to challenging situations, but when it becomes chronic, it can hurt our physical and mental health. A recent study published in Brain, Behaviour, and Immunity – Health has found that stress management could reduce biological risk. The study shows that inexpensive and simple stress-management approaches can help in assisting biological health outcomes.

Genetics, Lifestyle and a few other factors have been linked to the development of metabolic syndrome. This syndrome is a group of diseases that raise the risk of major health issues. Stress, due to its proclivity to increase inflammation in the body, is also associated with metabolic syndrome. People with this syndrome are diagnosed with at least three of five factors that increase the risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues – excess belly fat, high blood pressure, low HDL (good) cholesterol, and high levels of fasting blood glucose and triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. The condition is also referred to as insulin resistance syndrome.

The study discovered that stress management is one modifiable factor that is cost-effective as well as something people can do in their daily lives without having to get medical professionals involved. The research was conducted on a sample of 648 participants (average age 52) in a national survey titled Midlife in the United States. The study specifically examined people in midlife – a time that is critical to determine those who will experience accelerated ageing. Hence, in this article, we will learn about some simple ways to manage stress.

1. Take deep breaths or meditateMeditation is a great way to distract yourself from the stress of day-to-day life. On the other hand, deep breathing is also a good way to reduce the activation of your sympathetic nervous system.
2. Eat healthy, well-balanced mealsMaintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet is important when it comes to managing stress. Your meals should be full of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and protein-rich foods.
3. Get enough sleepSleeping heals a lot of things. It is crucial for a human body and mind to have a good night’s sleep to relieve daily stress.
4. Stretch and exercise regularlyStretching and exercising are proven to be great stress relievers. They can help improve your overall quality of life.
5. Make time for hobbiesTake a break from your regular schedule and manage time for hobbies that interest you. Try reading, listening to music, gardening and so on to make yourself free of stress.