Cortisol is a hormone in the body which helps to deal with high levels of stress. However, constant exposure to the hormone in times of continuous stress causes harm to the body. Research has also stated that the amount of insulin is inversely proportionate to the amount of cortisol in the body, therefore stating that the amount of fat we store in our bodies is directly proportionate to the amount of cortisol in the body. Certain changes in diet and lifestyle help to reduce the cravings for food by altering the amount of hormonal secretion in the body.

Lack of sleep is related to the amount of secretion of the hormone. Insomnia is said to increase the amount of secretion in a person; therefore sleeping well during the night is the best way to resolve the issue. Look at the root cause for the sleeplessness and tackle it at the source. This helps to take care of your health in more than one way.

In times of stress, people normally turn to food to comfort them. We stress out about various factors in our lives. Finances, work and family top the list of stressors. Stress is another factor that is responsible for the secretion of the hormone. One way to reduce stress is to get regular massages to increase the blood flow in your body and reduce the amount of hormonal secretion. Holy basil is an herbal supplement that aids reduction of stress levels. Chamomile tea has the same effect.

Not indulging in foods that your body craves for leads to binge eating at a later stage and eventually leads to stress over the amount of weight you have gained. An effective way to take care of this is to eat and indulge in foods that your body craves; just make sure that you watch the portions that you eat.

Avoid stimulants like nicotine and alcohol as they have adverse effects on your body. You must watch your caffeine consumption closely, to avoid it leading to binge eating at a later stage.

Get regular exercise to improve blood circulation and ensure a good night’s sleep.