How Stress Eating Packs on the Pounds

Stress can significantly impact how our bodies metabolize food, often leading to unwanted weight gain. Janice K. Kiecolt-Glasser and her colleagues conducted a study showing that stress not only affects our eating habits but also changes how our bodies process calories.

How Stress Affects Metabolism

When under stress, people tend to eat more comfort foods, which are often high in sugar and fat. This kind of “stress eating” can lead to the consumption of more calories than the body needs. Compounding the problem, the body’s metabolic rate slows down during stress, burning fewer calories and storing more fat, especially in the abdominal area. This combination of increased calorie intake and reduced calorie burning creates a perfect storm for weight gain (Kiecolt-Glaser et al., Biol Psychiatry 2015).

Reduced Calorie Burning During Stress

The study found that women who experienced a stressful event burned 104 fewer calories on average compared to those who were not stressed. This seemingly small reduction can have significant consequences over time. If this slower metabolic rate continues due to chronic stress, it could result in an estimated weight gain of around 11 pounds per year.

Long-term Consequences of Stress-Induced Weight Gain

Stress not only how much we eat but also how efficiently our bodies handle those extra calories, highlighting the importance of managing stress to maintain a healthy weight and metabolism (Kiecolt-Glaser et al., Biol Psychiatry 2015).

Strategies to Manage Stress and Maintain a Healthy Weight

Managing stress through techniques such as mindfulness, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can help mitigate the effects of stress on metabolism and weight gain. Prioritizing self-care and seeking professional help when needed are also crucial steps in maintaining overall health.