HEALTH

  Silent Signs Stress is making you sick:

• UNUSUAL WEIGHT CHANGES

Stress triggers the release of the hormone cortisol,which changes the way you metabolize fat, protein and carbs. "Excess cortisol slows down our metabolism." Stress can also cause you to overeat or undereat."

What to do - Snack on nuts. The protein will help if you're under - eating , and the fibre will fill you up if you've bingeing.

• BREAKING OUT IN RASHES

When your body experiences stress, it releases a chemical called histamine and - boom - rashes galore. When your immune system is weakened by stress, your skin can react to irritants it was never to, such as heat, lotions or detergents.

What to do - Use a cold compress or take a cold shower. If that fails , check with your doctor and pop an antihistamine.

• A FUZZY BRAIN

Too much cortisol can make it harder to concentrate , causing memory problems as well as anxiety and depression. "Watch out for nutrient deficiencies - Inadequate proportions of vitamins D and B12 are often a factor along with environment stressors"

What to do - Get active. " Choose a form of workout you enjoy".

Try an app like Breathe,available on iOS and Android. Ask your doctor if you need vitamin supplements.

• HEADACHES 

Muscles tend to tense up when you're stressed , which cause a headache. Prone to migraines? Stress can trigger them to make them worse.

What to do - If you don't want to take an ibuprofen, try dabbing lavender oil or peppermint oil on your temples. Restorative yoga can also help relax tense muscles.

• A COLD THAT WON'T QUIT

Stress suppresses the immune system , which makes it harder to fight off bugs. Dealing with many stress were twice as likely to get sick as those with fewer problems.

What to do - A study found that zinc supplements or lozenges can shorten the length of a cold by about a day if taken within 24 hours of feeling sick. Meditation , exercise and plenty of sleep can also help you de - stress.

• A SOUR TUMMY

"Stress often manifests itself in digestive issues". It can cause the body to produce more digestive acid, leading to heartburn.

What to do - Take an over - the - counter antacid or drink ginger tea.

• HAIR FALLING OUT

Hair follicles might be pushed into a resting phase by stress. A few months later, those hairs fall out.

What to do - Be patient. Once your stress level returns to   normal , your hair should start growing back. Meanwhile increase the intake of food rich in vitamins C,D,E and B (eggs , nuts , whole grains and vegetables ).

• ACNE ...... AGAIN

Cortisol causes skin to make more oil. Along with dirt and dead skin cells , the oil can get trapped inside hair follicles , causing pimples.

What to do - Topical creams containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can clear up acne. For a natural approach , wash your face with green tea or dab on some aloe. Their anti - bacterial properties promote healing.