Do you suffer from?

• Weight gain in the abdomen or triceps area that is difficult to lose
• Cravings for sweets and carbs
• Frequent illness
• Poor circulation
• Insomnia - difficulty falling asleep
• Acne
• Hair loss 
• Loss of muscle tone
• Pre-menstrual symptoms
• Mood disorders: depression, anxiety, seasonal affective disorder
• Cardiovascular disease
• Allergies
• Irritable bowel or digestive concerns
• Palpitations
• Nervousness
• Low blood pressure

Chronic stress is one of leading causes of health problems in our culture.  Our bodies are designed to release hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, from the adrenal glands to deal with stressful events. They help by stimulating our sympathetic nervous system to direct blood flow to our muscles and to release sugar and stored fat into the blood for a quick surge of energy that should allow us to overcome whatever we are facing. In an immediately stressful situation we might temporarily feel our heart rate pick up quickly, breathing becomes rapid, our hands and skin become clammy and cold, our face drains of color and our blood pressure rises. These changes then quickly subside as we overcome the stressful event.

Chronic stress, on the other hand, leads to over stimulation of our adrenal glands and nervous system leading to great imbalances in the body. For example, constant stress often comes from worry about finances, family or personal health concerns, stress at work and relationship issues. Combine these with the daily stressors of traffic, noise, cell phones, email - you get the idea - it's no wonder anxiety, depression, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome and exhaustion are so commonly experienced in this day and age.

Excess secretion of cortisol releases stored fat and sugar to be used as energy. Initially, this can lead to rapid weight loss after a traumatic event or starting a high stress job. Overtime however, this body starts to use up energy stored in muscles leading to muscle wasting and weakness. In addition, blood sugar levels become higher leading to pre-diabetic or hypoglycemic states. Finally, after a while our metabolism slows down again as cortisol alters thyroid hormones, serotonin, increases sugar and fat cravings and disrupts sleep. The body begins to put weight back on focusing on the dreaded abdominal and triceps areas and this weight is very difficult to lose.

You can take control of your stress levels, balance cortisol in the body, lose stubborn weight and create a fullfilling, inspiring life.

Working with diet, supplements, exercise and commiting to lifestyle changes are all part of the process.

Please call the clinic at 416.738.6757 to book an appointment.