The Stress Factor: Cortisol and How Drinking Tea May Help

We have all heard that stress can wreak havoc on our minds and bodies. But what exactly are the effects? Some include aging, weight gain, heart disease, diabetes, impaired immune system and gastrointestinal problems. Elevated stress hormones puts the body in a sort of catabolic state. This is the destructive phase of cell life that includes widespread tissue destruction, muscle loss, bone loss, immune system depression and even brain shrinkage! Stress hormones, such as cortisol, can cause elevated blood sugar, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and increased body fat levels due to increased appetite. Stress stimulates cravings for sweet, calorie dense foods and salty, high carbohydrate snacks. 

Cortisol, known more formally as hydrocortisone, is a steroid hormone produced by the zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex. It is designed to help you wake up in the morning and in emergencies, to cope with danger. And a spike in cortisol triggers the release of amino acids from the muscles, glucose from the liver, and fatty acids into the blood stream so the body can access a tremendous amount of energy. As a remedy for certain ailments, cortisol helps to prevent inflammation. Short term, this is usually beneficial. However, long-term effects of cortisol, such as those brought on by chronic stress, can have certain negative effects. 

So how can we relieve chronic stress? Here are a few ways to reduce stress and increase your body's recovery after a stressful situation more quickly. Chewing gum – A study conducted by Cardiff University’s Centre for Occupational and Health Psychology found evidence to suggest that chewing gum can often prevent the effect of acute stress. Laugh – Researchers in numerous studies have found that laughter significantly reduces stress hormones in the body, so take five minutes to read or watch something funny and lift your mood. Tea – Studies have revealed that people who drink tea have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their blood. If you drink black tea for example, you will de-stress faster because your levels of cortisol will go down more quickly, say researchers from the University College London. This particular study applies only to black tea, but suggests that drinking tea regularly could prevent prolonged high stress levels. Who's ready for a cup?