Put your weight first

A serious lack of sleep, especially on a regular basis can leave one feeling stressed or cause one’s stress level to increase. Stress may increase a person’s cortisol levels.

What is cortisol?

Cortisol is a ‘hormone that has been linked to cravings for sugar, an increased appetite as well as weight gain’.

Put your weight first!

Think about your weight-loss goals if you find that you are beginning to feel stressed and find ways in which you can reduce the stress that you are experiencing. For example, engage in some meditation or join a meditation group or class. Walking or sitting in nature - a park, your garden, a natural spot nearby - can be very calming. You could take up a new hobby or perhaps chat to someone about your problems, worries and concerns to help lessen the burden and help you to cope better.

Prioritise and manage your time!

You may also find it helpful to make a list of priorities for the day. This helps you to manage your time more effectively so that you can get an adequate amount of rest during the evenings. It will also ensure that you make some time to exercise.

Benefits of exercise

Exercise will not only help you to keep your stress level down but you will burn calories in the process too and this can go a long way towards helping to reach your goal weight. In addition, it releases endorphins and serotonin – the hormone that helps you to sleep.

So take control and put your weight first! Plan your day, sleep and exercise!

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