10 June 2015
Report #1
Harvard Health, (October 5, 2011), Overeating and stress,
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2011-10-05/health/sc-health-1005-stress-eating-2011100
5_1_stress-cortisol-levels-mary-dallman, Pgs. 1
Summary
About one quarter of Americans’ rate their stress level as an 8 out of 10. Experiencing
short periods of stress causes a variety of hormones to be released, one of which is a
corticotropin-releasing hormone, which actually suppresses appetite. On the other hand,
extended periods of stress causes cortisol to be released instead. Cortisol is a hormone that
increases appetite and can ramp up motivation, including motivation to eat. Normally, once
the stressful period in an individual’s life passes so does the higher level of cortisol.
Although, sometimes the stress does not go away, and the cortisol stays elevated.
Many studies have also shown that stress can cause an increase in the intake of unhealthy
foods. When foods high in fat, sugar, or sometimes both, are eaten, they have a feedback
effect that suppresses activity in the areas of the brain that cause stress and emotions
closely related to stress. This response can create a habit of eating junk food when an
individual is experiencing a stressful situation.
Stress levels can be reduced in a variety of ways, none of which involve eating. One way
to fight stress is to meditate. Many studies have proven that meditation reduces stress.
Low-intensity exercises can also help to reduce cortisol levels, and thus, decrease appetite.
Lastly, socializing with friends can effect stress levels, too. Friends help take ones mind off
of stressful situations.
Critique
This article was very clear. It had good scientific evidence about why Americans overeat,
but the information was easy to comprehend.
In contrast, this article had almost too many scientific statements, and not enough
elaboration on the statements themselves.