4 Ways to Fight Chronic Stress
Last week, I told you about one devastating effect of chronic stress…
It can increase your risk of colorectal cancer.
I don’t know many people who AREN’T stressed out these days, which makes this finding especially concerning.
There are many ways to fight back against chronic stress, but today I want to focus on one area of attack.
The following four key supplements are proven to lower stress-linked cortisol levels.
Cortisol is known as the stress hormone because your body releases it in response to threats.
This can be helpful—and even life-saving—if you’re fighting off an attacker. It increases your heart rate and blood pressure, increases muscle tension, slows digestion, limits your non-essential functions, and more.
But I’m sure you can see how damaging cortisol would be if it stays stuck in the “on position” and never comes back down.
In fact, chronically high cortisol levels are tied to major health threats like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, sleep problems, memory problems, weight gain, osteoporosis, cancer, and more.
That means looking for ways to lower your stress levels should be a top priority.
In addition, a few key supplements can help…
Magnesium
Studies show that magnesium has a two-pronged effect against stress.
First, it helps regulate the release of cortisol. Second, it stimulates calming neurotransmitters such as serotonin and melatonin.
So, it should come as no surprise that research reveals that magnesium can help reduce anxiety and enhance feelings of calmness.
Omega-3s
When you hear omega-3, heart health is likely the first thing you think of. However, studies also show omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce cortisol levels and inflammation, especially during stressful events.
A study found that folks with high cortisol levels had low omega-3 levels. So, it’s no real surprise that another study also revealed that taking a daily omega-3 supplement had a positive impact on occupational burnout, which is, of course, triggered by chronic stress.
Vitamin C
Research confirms vitamin C can reduce cortisol levels while supporting your stressed-out adrenal glands (the ones that make cortisol).
In one study, people taking vitamin C (1,000 mg daily) had significantly lower cortisol levels and fewer stress symptoms than those not taking C.
Ashwagandha
This herb is perhaps one of the best-known natural remedies for combatting stress.
It’s known as an adaptogen, which means it helps your body adapt to stress and anxiety.
Research shows that ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels in people who are chronically stressed. This has real-world effects like reducing anxiety, improving sleep, reducing blood pressure, and improving cognitive function.
Any combination of these nutrients could be the key to dialing down your cortisol and stress levels.
P.S. Ten-minute trick melts your stress away FAST!
SOURCE:
Lauren Thau, Jayashree Gandhi, Sandeep Sharma, Physiology – Cortisol, StatPearls, August 28, 2023, ncbi.nlm. nih. gov
