Friday, May 27, 2011

Cortisol

It has been suggested to me that a big part of my weight loss problem is the amount of cortisol my body is producing.  I have spent the week researching how to naturally combat this issue.  Here is what I found.

The first thing that is suggested to combat your body's production of cortisol is Yoga and meditation.  Yuck!!!!  I hate both of those things but, ok,  I will give it a try.  I went out and bought a Yoga tape and I am trying to take time daily for prayer/meditation.  I am also trying to work on my kata by using it as a chi/ki building exercise.  Much like when one does Tai Chi.

There are also foods that seem to naturally combat this issue: 
  • Black tea
  • Omega-3 fatty acid foods include salmon, halibut, tuna, walnuts and soybeans
  • Dark chocolate
  • Yogurt and Ricotta cheese
  • White beans
  • Citrus Fruits
 Here are some helpful links where you can research this on your own:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/399239-diet-for-high-cortisol-levels/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/363341-what-can-you-eat-to-help-with-cortisol/

Now, here is a food list I can get behind!  So, I am going to attempt to incorporate these foods into more of my meals.

There are also supplements that can help resolve this issue.  Dr. Braverman in his book, "The Younger, Thinner, You Diet"  suggests that high cortisol is the result of a dopamine deficiency in the brain.  He lists several supplements that you can purchase over the counter in order to improve this situation.  Due to it being a medical issue, I will not be listing the supplements.  But, I do highly suggest his book. It is a great reference tool.

So, that is what I am working on this week.  I hope this helps you and helps me lose some weight.  Good luck.

5 comments:

  1. Thanks for the mention! I offer a free age-print and consult on my web for people who want to know more www.PathMed.com

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  2. I am assumming that anonymous must be part of Dr. Braverman's organization. Glad that you got to read that post :)

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  3. Chocolate is a vital part of my daily diet. My husband backs me on that (plus, it means he always has chocolate when *he* needs it, LOL).

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  4. Amanda-I am not certain if life would be worth living without chocolate lol!

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