The Impact of Chronic Stress on Immunity
Chronic stress has become a prevalent issue in today's fast-paced world, significantly affecting individuals' overall health. According to experts, constant stress leads to elevated levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. While cortisol plays a crucial role in enhancing endurance and energy during stressful situations, its prolonged presence in the body can have detrimental effects on immunity. As the scientific director of MARTINEX explains, when stress is chronic, the body becomes desensitized to cortisol, resulting in continuous production that ultimately depletes the adrenal glands.
How Stress Affects the Immune System
The persistent elevation of cortisol directly impacts T-cells, the immune system's 'killers' that combat infections and abnormal cells. When cortisol levels remain high, T-cells become less effective, leading to a decline in the body's overall immunity. This situation can result in increased susceptibility to illnesses, as well as exacerbation of chronic dermatological conditions like eczema. Furthermore, high cortisol levels contribute to adverse changes in body composition, particularly the accumulation of visceral fat in the abdominal region and puffiness in the face.
The Importance of Sleep and Recovery
To mitigate the negative effects of chronic stress, maintaining a healthy sleep routine is vital. Experts recommend 8-10 hours of sleep in complete darkness to help reduce cortisol levels and promote the production of melatonin, which aids in skin restoration and overall well-being. Additionally, incorporating regular exercise can help utilize excess cortisol, improving both physical and mental states. Neurologist Maxim Pankov also suggests that short afternoon rests can help alleviate fatigue for those experiencing high levels of stress due to demanding work schedules.
