Stress = Weight Gain

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an unavoidable part of our daily lives. Stress not only affects our mental and emotional well-being but can also impact our physical health, leading to weight gain and its associated consequences. Here are four ways that stress adversely impacts your health and causes weight gain and what you can do to reverse the adverse effects of stress with herbal remedies and mind-body practices. 

The Link Between Stress and Weight Gain

Stress triggers physiological responses, including releasing stress hormones such as cortisol. Cortisol plays a critical role in the body's fight-or-flight response. In small bursts, cortisol can be beneficial, but chronic stress can cause cortisol levels to remain elevated for extended periods, leading to various adverse effects, including weight gain.

Disrupted Eating Patterns

Stress can disrupt regular eating patterns, leading to erratic meal timing, skipping meals, or consuming meals hastily. These behaviors can negatively impact metabolism and digestion, making it more challenging to maintain a healthy weight.

Belly Fat Accumulation

 The stress hormone Cortisol can also promote fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area. Excess belly fat increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other health complications.

Disturbed Sleep Cycle

Stress can disrupt sleep rhythm, leading to inadequate or poor-quality sleep. Your sleep cycle has been disturbed when you wake up feeling unrefreshed. Sleep deprivation can affect the production of hormones that regulate appetite, such as leptin and ghrelin, leading to increased hunger and cravings for unhealthy foods.

While addressing the root causes of stress is crucial, incorporating certain herbs, supplements, meditation, and qi gong practices into your routine may help manage stress and minimize weight gain while helping you begin to lose unhealthy weight. 

Herbal Remedies for Stress-Induced Weight Gain 

Based on a family formulation for weight wellness and our combined 75 years of clinical experience, my brother Dr. Daoshing Ni and I formulated B-Slim in response to the needs of our modern lifestyle, which leads to stress-induced weight gain. B-Slim, an all-natural herbal formula, contains the following ingredients that have had the benefit of time-tested safety and efficacy:

Green tea contains compounds like catechins and polyphenols that have antioxidant properties. These compounds may help reduce stress and promote weight loss. Green tea extract has been shown to increase fat oxidation and improve metabolic rate.

Lotus leaf has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to promote weight loss. It is believed to help regulate digestion, promote fat metabolism, and assist in detoxification.

Hawthorn berry has been used in Chinese medicine to aid digestion and manage weight. It is believed to promote fat metabolism, reduce cholesterol, and regulate blood sugar levels. Some studies have indicated that Chinese hawthorn extract may have anti-obesity effects by reducing body weight, fat accumulation and improving lipid profiles.

Chinese rhubarb, also known as da huang, has been used in Chinese medicine for its cleansing and detoxifying properties. It is believed to promote healthy bowel excretions and support digestive health. Weight management formulas often include it to support healthy digestion and detoxification. 

Stress Detox with the Detox Tea

Prolonged stress leads to a build-up of cortisol that your liver cannot break down and clear from the body, resulting in anxiety, agitation, bloating, and fat accumulation in the belly. The Detox Tea contains the following herbs that are helpful to assist the liver in detoxification and elimination of stress hormones:

Dandelion root has traditionally been used to support liver function. It contains various bioactive compounds, including bitter substances called sesquiterpene lactones, believed to stimulate bile production and promote healthy liver function. Adequate bile production is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats and for eliminating toxins from the body. 

Chronic inflammation can contribute to liver damage and impaired liver function. Some studies suggest that certain constituents in white mulberry bark possess anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, white mulberry bark may help maintain liver health and support its detoxification functions. 

Chrysanthemum blossom has been studied for its potential hepatoprotective effects, meaning it may help protect liver cells from damage. Research suggests that chrysanthemum extracts may protect the liver, reducing liver injury caused by toxins or certain medications.

Meditation for Stress-Induced Weight Gain 

Chronic stress can lead to weight gain and hinder weight loss efforts. Meditation for Stress Release incorporates visualization, progressive relaxation, and deep breathing techniques, which have been shown to reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calmness. In addition, by reducing stress and emotional eating, meditation may indirectly support weight management. 

Qi Gong for Stress-Induced Weight Gain 

Some studies suggest that Qi Gong practice positively influences hormone levels related to weight regulation. For example, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that Qi Gong practice decreased cortisol levels. I strongly advise Qi Gong for Weight Loss, a method designed specifically to improve your metabolism. 

When B-Slim is combined with Detox Tea, Meditation for Stress Release, Qi Gong for Weight Loss, and a balanced and nutritious meal plan, patients who participated in our three-month Weight Wellness Study lost an average of 19.6 pounds. Naturally, results may vary depending on each individual’s unique condition, circumstance, and consistency of effort. Always consult your doctors before beginning any weight loss regimen.