From all the pressure we’ve got at work to the drama of our personal lives, it’s not surprising that we experience a certain amount of stress every day. But when chronic stress becomes a normal part of life, the physical effects can be serious and may even have long-term consequences. While eating foods rich in prebiotics may help, it may not be enough even though it will feel like it for awhile. But what if you still feel like you’re constantly under pressure? Chronic stress can have some serious physical effects on the body. And today, we highlight how chronic stress can put you at risk of various health problems, and at the end, you’ll learn how to deal with them.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Stress is one of the leading causes of heart disease. According to a study, those under chronic stress have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease. Chronic stress increases the amount of cortisol (a hormone released when you’re feeling anxious) in your bloodstream, which causes your blood vessels to constrict, leading to high blood pressure. Over time, this can damage your arteries and increase your risk for stroke, heart attack, and more. Simply put, it won’t be a good idea to ignore the long-term effects of chronic stress on your cardiovascular health.

Obesity and Other Eating Disorders

Your body isn’t designed to handle stressors on the daily, so your body will try to cope with them by gaining weight or losing appetite. Many people tend to either binge eat or not eat at all when they’re stressed out. Those under chronic stress often forget that their bodies need a balanced diet of essential vitamins and nutrients to remain healthy. Chronic stress can cause various physical issues, such as obesity, diabetes, anorexia, and bulimia. In some cases, it even causes eating disorders.

Skin and Hair Problems

Have you ever noticed that your skin and hair start to suffer when you’re stressed out? That’s because chronic stress can affect the way our bodies process hormones. Too much cortisol can cause your sebaceous glands to overproduce oil, leading to acne or psoriasis. It can also lead to thinning of the hair and lack of growth. Some people even experience hair loss due to chronic stress.

Gastrointestinal Problems

From GERD to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to ulcers, various gastrointestinal issues can be caused by chronic stress. The hormones released when stressed out can cause your stomach to produce too much acid, leading to various digestive problems. Stress can also interfere with how your intestines absorb nutrients and cause constipation. A study even found that chronic stress can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Yes, the horrors of stress can be all too real. Chronic stress can have serious physical consequences, and if left unchecked, it can lead to more severe health issues such as obesity, digestive problems, and even heart disease. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to manage your stress more effectively. Exercising, meditating, and getting enough sleep are all great ways to reduce stress and keep your body healthy. So don’t wait any longer. Take a few moments each day to combat the physical effects of chronic stress.