Stress is one of the most reliable predictors of early-onset obesity and early death, Elissa Epel

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Tuesday, June 19, 2012 11:30 am Email this article
"One of the biggest, most reliable predictors of early-onset [obesity] and [death] is through the stress pathway," notes Elissa Epel from the Center for Obesity Assessment, Study and Treatment, University of California, San Francisco in the 7-part video series called “The Skinny on Obesity” (Episode 6).

Numerous models show stress matters

Both animal and human models show stress matters

“There are now many models, from animal models to human models, showing that stress matters, Epel notes.

High stress shifts behavior

High stress shifts behavior, increases appetite, and is related to obesity

“High stress shifts behavior, our appetite, stimulates overeating, and is related to both insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and general obesity.

Stress increases appetite for biological reasons

Stress increases appetite and holds onto calories for biological reasons

“Under stress, whether it’s stress threatening in a job, being confronted with medical care bills…

“There are a number of stressors that are really threatening to us, and under these conditions, it only makes sense, biologically, that eventually we would reach for those comfort foods to calm us down, but also to hold onto those calories and be ready for the next assault,” notes Barbara Laraia from the Center for Obesity Assessment, Study and Treatment, University of California, San Francisco.

“We see this in middle-income families, low-income families, and it depends on one’s biology and the food environment.

Stress causes accumulation of fat

Most of us will accumulate fat under stress chronic stress

“Most of us will accumulate fat under these conditions.”

Reference

Robert Lustig, MD. The The Skinny on Obesity, Episode 6.
UCTV Prime: The Skinny on Obesity

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