Recent studies have revealed a relationship between cortisol and abdominal fat. Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the body in situations of stress, and high cortisol levels generate increased abdominal fat.
You want to reduce your cortisol levels and thus burn more abdominal fat? Here are 3 things to avoid:
Too much work:
Recent research confirms that if you work more than 48 hours a week, you are obviously more likely to be stressed, and this leads to weight gain. Stress and anxiety can actually increase appetite. The reason seems simple: dealing with stress, many people eat or drink alcohol to calm down. Alcohol greatly increases cortisol levels, and therefore leads to get fatter.
Furthermore, another scientific research shows that stress stimulates the hypothalamus to secrete a substance that increases the fat in the body.
Work less can then have magic effects on your health and your life!
Caffeine after 18:00:
Caffeine can double the level of cortisol, especially if it is consumed in the evening as it can have a negative impact on the quality of your sleep. Quality and uninterrupted sleep is essential for reducing the level of cortisol, so it is important to avoid the consumption of coffee after 18 pm.
Being constantly connected:
A recent Canadian study found that people constantly “connected” are more vulnerable to stress. The use of TV, smartphones, and computers can contribute to stress thus to weight gain. Take time to disable these devices and take breaks during the day.