Dr. Oz's Ultimate Stress Checklist

In today’s busy world people accept chronic stress as part of everyday life. This thinking is extremely dangerous to your health.  Up to 90% of all doctor visits in the United States are for stress-related illnesses. In fact, stress is the top reason why women are aging faster, getting sicker and dying before their time.

Chronic stress impacts 3 vital organs – the brain, the stomach and the heart; it weakens the immune system and increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal problems and possibly even cancer.

Research shows that stress affects the female heart on a microvascular level; plaque builds up within small arteries, which can lead to chest pains and even heart attacks.

On a cellular level stress increases the production of the stress hormone cortisol, causing inflammation and free radical damage that contributes to the premature aging of the body’s cells, shrinking of the brain and can add dangerous belly fat.

Conquer stress before it conquers you by reviewing Dr. Oz’s Ultimate Stress Checklist followed by his at-home stress test.

Dr. Oz’s Ultimate Stress Checklist

Avoid Stress Eating

In times of stress, the brain demands more calories. Stress eating has also been tied to excess belly fat, which is caused by increased cortisol production.

Fight stress by avoiding processed foods containing white flour and refined sugars. They spike insulin and stress hormone levels. Reach for these stress-busting foods instead.

• Whole grain cereals provide sustained energy release. Eat 1 cup of steel-cut oats per day.
• Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids prevent stress hormones from surging. Eat fish like salmon twice a week.
• Pistachios contain plant sterols, proven to lower blood pressure, and magnesium, which relaxes blood vessels. Eat 3-ounce handfuls a few times per week.