A major factor in your ability to have a body and mind that works well is the effect stress has on you. It is doubtful that you can avoid stress in your life. Since stress is inevitable, how you manage it is crucial. There are 2 kinds of stress: short and long‒term. It’s the long‒term stress that is so destructive and this is where a functional medicine approach is very helpful.
Dr. Terry knows that stressful situations and poor lifestyle choices can lead to physical pain and imbalances in brain chemistry that can lead to depression and anxiety. This can easily be cumulatively stored in your body. De‒stressing is an effective way to prevent your bodily systems from becoming overwhelmed and under‒supported. Feeling overwhelmed, overworked, or overburdened in life? Discover a functional medicine approach to stress management and restore your balance and energy.
Chronic stress comes from physical and emotional places. A well known saying in functional medicine is “ Stress Kills”, and that is not far from the truth.
There are two aspects to stress management.
The combination of these two aspects are powerful and can make a huge difference in getting you back to feeling like yourself again.
Stress comes from more than just emotional strain ‒ it can be physical, too. From hidden infections to toxins to harmful foods, long‒term stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can wear down the body over time. The functional medicine way of looking at cortisol is to ask questions like how do we measure it? where is it produced? can we blunt it’s negative effects? We do know that people’s health suffers if cortisol remains high.
Stress can cause muscles to tighten, leading to chronic aches and pains, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back.
Stress can worsen skin conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis, as cortisol triggers inflammation.
Cortisol can cause blood sugar to rise, increasing the risk of developing insulin resistance or diabetes over time.
Stress slows the body’s ability to recover, making it harder to heal from injuries or illnesses.
Digestive disorders, bloating, and constipation are often linked to chronic stress.
Stress diminishes your ability to focus, remember details, or think clearly, which can impact daily life and work performance.
Dr. Terry is here to guide you toward better energy and well-being. Take the first step toward a healthier, more active life—we’re with you all the way.
Cortisol is a hormone that plays a key role in how your body responds to stress. Ideally, cortisol levels should rise in the morning to help you wake up and decrease at night to promote sleep. However, when stress becomes chronic, it disrupts this natural rhythm and can have several negative effects on your health.
Here are some ways that elevated cortisol can affect your health:
Increased Blood Sugar
Weight
Gain
Sleep
Disturbances
Hormonal
Imbalances
High cortisol can disrupt the balance of other hormones, affecting reproductive health and leading to irregular menstrual cycles in women and low T in men.
Managing stress is essential for maintaining overall health. While some may resort to unhealthy options like alcohol, drugs, or overeating, there are healthier alternatives to alleviate stress
Here are effective strategies for managing stress:
Dr. Terry is here to help you discover the best functional medicine strategies for managing stress and maximizing your well-being. Take the first step toward a healthier life; we’ll support you every step of the way!
Small amounts of short-lived stress that you choose like sports and exercise are quite beneficial to your body. Long-term stress due to emotional trauma, chronic physical stressors, and life situations are very damaging due to excess cortisol’s negative effect. The functional medicine way to address this is to measure your adrenal hormones, support your body’s ability to manage stress with supplements, and engage in healthy stress-reducing behaviors.
Recognizing stress early is key to managing it effectively. Common signs include irritability, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and physical symptoms like headaches or muscle tension. Being aware of these signs can help you take proactive steps to address stress before it escalates.
Nutrition plays a significant role in managing stress levels. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can support your body’s response to stress. Avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar is essential, as these can lead to increased anxiety and mood swings. Staying hydrated is also important for maintaining energy levels and overall well-being. There are a few extremely effective supplements to help counter the effects of stress on your body.
Yes, several types of exercise are particularly effective in reducing stress. Aerobic activities like running, swimming, or cycling can boost endorphins and improve mood. Yoga and tai chi combine gentle movement with mindfulness, promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Even short walks in nature can help clear your mind and alleviate stress.
