Stop doing this to beat stress fat

A weight loss block

We've all got stress, which can be a good thing sometimes. But too much of it can lead to additional – and unwanted – weight gain. Otherwise known as stress fat.

Getting enough sleep, meditating, exercising, and eating healthily are all ways to combat this.

But there's yet another way – something you might not think about, that could be slowing down your weight loss attempts.

Strict dieting

Research shows that constant dieting can spike cortisol levels as much as 18%. This means that your blood sugar levels rise, then plummet – making you cranky and ravenous. And this is when your self control normally takes a nosedive.

Instead of being rigid with your diet, allow yourself mini treats once in a while. That way you won't feel deprived, you'll feel happier – less stressed, and you won't derail your diet.

Recommended reading: Is perfectionism ruining your diet?

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