The silent killer
IT is no secret that stress is a silent killer. Nearly 70% of Malaysian working adults suffer from stress-related illnesses according to a survey by global workplace provider Regusin 2013.
To some people, stress is a motivator and is seen as just part of life. However, when stress becomes excessive and a person is overwhelmed by it, it can have detrimental effects.
The stress hormone – cortisol – is released into the bloodstream when a person’s body recognises episodes of stress. High levels of cortisol can affect one’s learning capabilities and memorising capacities. It also reduces efficiency of the immune system, increases blood pressure, disrupts quality sleep and upsets cholesterol metabolism in the liver.
Cortisol also acts as an insulin antagonist and may cause glucose intolerance, which will eventually raise blood glucose levels. Obesity, heart disease, diabetes, depression, gastrointestinal problems and asthma are just some of the many diseases that can affect a person overwhelmed by stress.
Unfortunately women, with their multiple roles to play in life, are more susceptible to these diseases. Studies have shown that coronary diseases are more likely to affect a woman under stress, compared to women who are satisfied with their roles.
Dealing with stress is not easy when work keeps piling up and the boss is constantly breathing down your neck. A few simple steps could greatly help, such as: Consumption of vitamin B1 to avoid lethargy. Known as the “gatekeeper”, vitamin B1 ensures efficiency in energy production. Consumption of vitamins B2 and B3 will help combat sleepless nights. B2 reduces migraines whereas B3 will promote better sleep. For proper blood circulation, vitamin B6, B9 and B12 are recommended. These brain nutrients will aid in delivering nutrients and oxygen to the brain for the best performance. Take these when you are experiencing light-headedness and lack of focus. For better concentration, eat foods that are rich in choline. Acetylcholine is made from choline and helps in message transmissions within brain cells. Choline is available in soy products and egg yolk. Improve the health of your liver by incorporating foods with fat mobilisers into your diet to decrease fat in the liver. Biotin and inositol helps prevent accumulation of fats in the liver and enhances its detoxification functions. When deadlines are looming and your body is slowly giving in to viruses, grab some vitamin C, E and minerals such as selenium, zinc and manganese to protect your body better. These vitamins aid in replenishing what is used up too quickly by the body during stressful times.
When cravings for sweet or fatty foods come around, it is time to stop and evaluate if you are under stress. Take some vitamins and care for your health so that you may get through stressful times with no problem.
This health information was brought to you by Cambert (M) Sdn Bhd. For more information, call 1300-88-1712.