Some people gain weight even though they don’t eat much. Dietitian points out possible cause
Weight gain is a nightmare for many people of all ages. Weight gain is not always the result of overeating or lack of physical activity. The cause of the problem may lie somewhere else. Many people have no idea about it.
Dietitian Hanna Stolińska is dealing with various myths about weight loss and nutrition online. This time, she decided to share a few observations about gaining weight. The expert indicated what may be the cause of weight gain. The culprit is often cortisol, or the “stress hormone”. It is a substance produced by the adrenal cortex. It plays a very important role in the body. It mobilizes action and has anti-inflammatory effects. However, it can also be harmful
Cortisol and weight gain
Weight gain – as indicated by dietitian Dr. Hanna Stolińska – may be a symptom of too high a level of cortisol in the body. An excess of this hormone causes us to gain weight faster and we cannot get rid of the extra kilos. It also causes many other harms. It increases the risk of tissue inflammation and reduces the number of white blood cells in the blood. It weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
How to lower cortisol levels in the body? An effective “weapon” in the fight against excess “stress hormone” is natural vitamin C. A good source of this compound is seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, blackcurrants, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, peppers, spinach, tomatoes or parsley. It is best to include raw, minimally processed products in your diet. Dietitian Hanna Stolińska advises to stop using vitamin C supplements. “These are removed from the body in excess, and additionally burden the intestines,” she explains in one of her posts published on social media.
Excess cortisol as a symptom of disease
It is worth emphasizing, however, that excess cortisol may be a symptom indicating irregularities in the functioning of the body, especially the adrenal cortex. Therefore, if you notice disturbing symptoms, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, insomnia, mood swings or hypertension, contact your primary care physician. A test that allows you to assess the level of the “stress hormone” in the body is a blood count, i.e. taking a blood sample. Sometimes the doctor may also order a urine test.
