Top 4 Effects of Chronic Stress

Our bodies can only take in as much stress as that from threats such as predators. When we subject our minds to excessive stress that they are not accustomed to, they might break down. Pressure is said to be chronic if it is experienced over a prolonged period. Chronic stress has various effects such as those outlined below:

1. Increase risk of cardiovascular diseases

Picture yourself in a stressful situation; such as traffic jam. Every minute you imagine getting late, your heart races. You feel overwhelmed and anxious. At times the stress levels are exceedingly high to the extent that you feel as if you are experiencing a mini heart attack. Stress makes the blood vessels work harder, and that is why chronic stress can be detrimental to our cardiovascular health.

2. Damages memory

Have you ever realized that you tend to forget things when under stress? Chronic stress has been found to cause changes in the hippocampus, which is the brain region that is responsible for storage of memory. It interferes with the ability of the hippocampus to decode and encode memories. This means that chronic stress can make it difficult for you t make new memories and recall those you have already made.

3. Depresses the immune system

The immune system works to ensure we are protected against illnesses and pathogens. During stressful situations, all of the body’s energy is directed towards escaping from the burst hormones instead of preserving the body. That is why when under chronic stress our bodies are susceptible to diseases as the stress hormones suppress the immune system.

4. Excessive weight gain

Exposure to chronic stress plays a significant role in weight gain. When you are stressed, the hormone cortisol influences appetite and food preferences. Specifically, it lowers insulin levels; thus making blood glucose levels to drop significantly. Also, eating the calorie-filled foods will have a direct effect on your weight.