Stress is an inevitable part of life, a response that has been hardwired into humans as a survival mechanism. At its core, stress is the body’s way of reacting to any demand or threat. When faced with danger, the body undergoes a series of changes known as the “fight-or-flight” response. This involves the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body to either confront or flee from the threat. While this response can be crucial for survival in acute situations, chronic activation due to ongoing stress can have detrimental effects on health.
The science behind stress begins with the hypothalamus in the brain. Upon perceiving stress, it signals the adrenal glands to release adrenaline and cortisol into the bloodstream. Adrenaline increases heart rate and elevates blood pressure, while cortisol boosts glucose levels by releasing stored sugars from cells for immediate energy use. These physiological changes enable quick reactions but also put significant strain on various bodily systems when prolonged.
Chronic stress disrupts nearly every system in your body. It can suppress immune function, making one more susceptible to infections and illnesses. The continuous presence of high levels of cortisol impairs cognitive functions such as memory and concentration by affecting areas Delta 8 Resellers like the hippocampus in the brain responsible for these tasks. Moreover, chronic stress has been linked to mental health disorders including anxiety and depression.
Cardiovascular health is particularly vulnerable under persistent stress conditions. Stress causes inflammation in arteries leading to plaque buildup—a precursor for heart disease—and increases risks for hypertension due to constant elevated blood pressure levels during stressful periods.
Digestive issues are another common consequence; chronic exposure affects digestion by altering gut bacteria composition which may lead to problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, stressed individuals might engage in unhealthy eating habits—either overeating or loss of appetite—further exacerbating digestive troubles.
