A top reason for your belly blues

Stress and stubborn weight

The reason your belly is refusing to budge may have more to do with your everyday work and family life pressures, than with what you're eating.

When we become stressed, our bodies release a hormone known as cortisol. This can enlarge your fat cells and increase the amount of fat your body clings to.

3 Ways to combat everyday stress

We can't control what happens to us, but we can control how we react to it. When you're feeling anxious or stressed, give these tips a try...

1. Breathe. Practice breathing in slowly for seven counts and out again for another seven. Focus on a calming image.

2. Move. Do a few easy stretches or exercise moves, or walk round the block to relax your body and ease any built-up tension.

3. Walk away. Make a cup of tea, get some fresh air outside, or sit in your car and listen to some music for a few minutes.

Recommended reading: 4 Simple ways to cope with work stress

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