Don’t worry, we don’t subscribe to the “let the fat melt away” or “sweat off the extra weight” schools of thought. However, there are established links between high levels of stress and obesity as well as between stress relief and hot tubs. So, from enjoying your backyard hot tub to achieving your weight loss objectives, it’s really not a big leap!
Weight Loss Statistics
Did you know that every year, more than 50 million Americans start diets? Much if that statistic may be significant, this one is even more so: just 1% – 5% of people who start diets manage to successfully keep the weight off long term. Many doctors mention ongoing good habits such as choosing appropriate eating choices, reducing alcohol intake, exercising consistently, and managing stress when people ask them how to keep weight under control for the longer duration.
Weight Gain with High Stress
How can stress cause people to acquire weight? One word can sum up the main reason: cortisol. Our bodies use this stress hormone to activate the fight-or-flight response when faced with a threat. The pressures of modern life frequently cause cortisol levels to rise unnecessarily; cortisol was once helpful in a society where physical threats occasionally occurred but lives were generally less stressful. Cortisol is produced in excess when there is a lot of stress, but there is no easy way to release it, unless you find the opportunity to run away from a bear. As a result, there is greater ongoing stress and less overall life pleasure.
How do rising cortisol levels relate to gaining weight? First, a lot of Americans use fatty, sweet, or salty foods as a form of fast self-medication. This tendency, known as “stress eating,” is not at all uncommon. Along with encouraging bad eating habits, cortisol inhibits testosterone, the hormone in charge of developing powerful muscles, which if they existed would effectively burn calories. Less testosterone causes bodies to store extra fat instead of burning calories. Increased fat storage, especially in the abdominal region, is a third effect of high cortisol levels. Deep abdominal fat has 400% more cortisol receptors than other fat reserves in the region compared to other types of fat.
Hot Tubs & Less Stress
We’re all more inclined to enjoy social interaction, eat healthier, and engage in physical activity when we’re under less stress. As a result, hot tubs’ positive effects on the body, mind, and spirit can undoubtedly aid in long-term weight loss. Increased blood flow is made possible by the blood vessels being helped to relax by immersion in the warm water. Heat and the buoyancy of water work together to help the blood carry oxygen to more parts of the body, making you feel better. This improved circulation also makes it easier for the heart to pump blood, which slows breathing and helps to decrease cortisol output through deep, regulated breathing.
Read More About Pools
• 10 Great Fire Pit Seating Ideas
• The Beauty Behind Secret Pools
Lyon Financial
Since 1979 Lyon Financial has made the backyard resort dream come true for over 500,000 families across the U.S. Through our solid relationships with more than 3,000 pool contractors and our continued commitment to putting our clients first, we have built a reputation as the first choice in providing pool financing solutions. For more information, visit lyonfinancial.net or call (877) 754-5966 today.
Disclaimer: This website does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Content from this website is not intended for medical diagnosis/treatment. The information provided on this website is intended for general consumer information & should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice.
