Science - Inner Beauty and Stress

Inner Beauty and Stress

Stress in life affects everyone, regardless of gender or age. Adolescents may experience stress from peer pressure, academic demands, and self-identity issues. As they are in a stage of exploring their identity and self-worth, they often feel stressed and must cope with various challenges.

Adults face a more diverse array of stressors from different sources. Work and financial pressures are among the primary sources of stress. Work-related stress can stem from a highly competitive workplace, long working hours, and heavy workloads. Financial stress might come from paying rent, loans, and children's education expenses.

Elderly individuals also face unique stressors. After retirement, they may encounter the need to redefine their life goals and cope with social isolation. These changes can lead to stress and anxiety. In summary, stress is a reality everyone faces.

 These psychological stresses vary from person to person and are closely related to physical health. Let's explore some of the factors involved:

1.     Adaptability: Some people seem to cope with stress better than others. Besides personality differences, adaptability is influenced by other factors such as social support, mental health, and life experiences.

2.     Steroids: Steroids are chemicals secreted by the body that play a crucial role in responding to stress. Adrenal cortex hormones, such as cortisol, are types of steroids released during stress. However, an excess or deficiency of steroids can affect our body's response to stress.

3.     Hormonal Imbalance: Hormones regulate our bodily functions. If hormones are imbalanced, such as with hypothyroidism, sex hormone imbalance, or adrenal dysfunction, it can impact our stress response and adaptability.

These life stressors are closely related to "stress hormones". Ignoring these stresses for a prolonged period can lead to various physical problems. Some common effects include: [1]

1.     Immune System Disorders: Long-term stress can affect the immune system's function. Excessive release of stress hormones like cortisol can inhibit immune cell activity, making you more susceptible to infections or recurring skin itching issues.

2.     Body Odor Issues: Stress can lead to increased sweating, which can cause body odor. Additionally, stress may affect the secretion of oils in the skin, further exacerbating body odor problems.

3.     Abnormal Weight Gain: Stress can influence eating habits and metabolism. Some people might choose high-sugar, high-fat foods under stress, leading to weight gain. Moreover, stress can affect hormone balance, further impacting weight.

 Appropriate exercise can stimulate endorphins in the brain, helping to relieve stress and regulate the impact of hormones on the body. Additionally, incorporating more cruciferous vegetables into your daily diet can effectively supplement nutrition and regulate metabolism issues.

·        Exercise and Endorphins: Exercise can promote the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Exercise not only helps alleviate stress but also improves mood and strengthens the body's resistance. [2]

·        Cruciferous Vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, kale, and bok choy) are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help regulate hormone balance. One key component is indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and its metabolites diindolylmethane (DIM) and sulforaphane, which are believed to impact hormone metabolism and regulation positively. [3]

Exercise and a balanced diet are crucial factors in maintaining physical and mental health, helping us cope with stress and maintain a high quality of life.

[1] Stress and Your Health. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 91, Issue 2, 1 February 2006, Page E2, https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.91.2.9994

[2] Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress.” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469

[3] Syed, R.U 2023, Broccoli: A Multi-Faceted Vegetable for Health: An In-Depth Review of Its Nutritional Attributes, Antimicrobial Abilities, and Anti-inflammatory Properties, Antibiotics 2023, 12, 1157. https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6382/12/7/1157