Did you know that emotional and physiological stress can have the same effect on the body as physical trauma?
Inflammation is the body’s biological response to both emotional stress and physical injury.
It is an essential part of the body’s first attempt to protect and begin to heal itself from injury. Injury can occur when the body is exposed to physical stimuli, such as allergens, pathogens, and physical trauma. If there is a failure to eliminate the stimuli, over time, this inflammation can become chronic.
The trials and tribulations of modern day life can develop into chronic stress. It is this type of stress that causes physical injury to the body by triggering inflammation in our vital organs. Chronic inflammation contributes to all of the chronic inflammatory diseases from acne and arthritis to diabetes and heart disease.
Luckily, we have something built right into our system that can help to balance out the stress of our daily grind.
Let me tell you a little bit about a hormone called oxytocin, also known as the love hormone.
Oxytocin is a hormone that is released in the brain and travels all through the body, where it regulates such functions as blood pressure, wound healing, and pain relief. It is best known for initiating the contraction of the uterus during labour and delivery, as well as the maternal bonding that takes place afterward. Recent studies have also looked at the important role it plays during intercourse and orgasm. It has been shown in animal studies to be the magic ingredient that keeps partners together, encouraging the formation of strong emotional bonds and attachments.
Chronic emotional stress and tension have actually been shown to suppress the production and release of this very important stress-reducing love drug.
Here are five ways to boost your oxytocin levels
…and keep it flowing to help you reduce the inflammatory effects of a high stress lifestyle.
1. Eat whole healthy foods and avoid refined sugar
Studies show that chronic consumption of high sugar foods can reduce the activity of oxytocin in the brain. A high sugar diet also dulls the brain’s pathways that signal satiety and appetite control. Eating sugar not only stresses out the body but reduces stress-busting oxytocin and keeps you wanting more!
2. Help someone in need
Helping and supporting others through acts of charity have been shown to have significant stress-reducing benefits. Studies show that the generous act of helping someone in need actually stimulates a release of oxytocin that is partly responsible for these benefits.
3. Exercise regularly
Exercise is associated with the release of oxytocin, which reduces the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, insulin resistance, diabetes, and obesity. Daily exercise is a great way to boost your oxytocin and boost your health.
4. Make love
Studies show that a healthy sex life with a loving companion can have a very positive influence on heart health, pain management, immunity, mood, and even protect against certain types of cancer. All of these benefits are thanks to the fact that sexual intimacy stimulates the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin levels peak during orgasm and can remain elevated for up to five minutes!
5. Seek friendship and social support
Over the years, studies (1) (2) have shown that positive social interactions are related to health promoting effects. It is now being discovered that it may, in fact, be the oxytocin that is released into the bloodstream during these interactions that is responsible for lowering blood pressure and cortisol levels.
Nutritionist Julie Daniluk RHN hosts The Healthy Gourmet on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), a reality cooking show that looks at the ongoing battle between taste and nutrition. Her first bestselling book, Meals That Heal Inflammation, advises on allergy-free foods that both taste great and assist the body in the healing process. Julie has appeared on The Dr. Oz Show and is a resident expert for The Marilyn Denis Show and Reader’s Digest. Check out more amazing recipes, nutrition tips, and her Anti-Inflammatory Quick Start Program at www.juliedaniluk.com and follow her on Facebook at Julie Daniluk Nutrition and on Twitter @juliedaniluk.
*Featured Image by matt.herzog.
