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The Connection between Anxiety and Weight Gain

Peter Winslow, Life Coach

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Arizona-based life coach Peter Winslow works with clients who are dealing with challenges in their careers, health, and personal lives. As a life coach, Peter Winslow has helped clients struggling with weight issues by helping them understand the connection between anxiety and weight gain.

The diet and weight-loss industry is a multibillion-dollar business, with many companies promising quick fixes, diet plans, and miracle pills to help struggling individuals shed the pounds. However, a growing number of research studies suggest that dealing with anxiety and stress may be as important as nutrition to weight loss.
According to some experts, stress and anxiety contribute to weight gain in three primary ways. First, anxiety causes the adrenal glands to release a chemical called cortisol, which causes fat to be stored in the midsection.
Second, many people cope with stress by eating. Individuals with unremitting anxiety often overeat.
Third, anxiety can lead to prolonged inactivity. Many people with anxiety find the idea of exercise overwhelming. A sedentary lifestyle combined with overeating and overactive cortisol production can lead to substantial weight gain.