Stress & Sugar Cravings – The Surprising Link

Ever wondered why stressful days often end with you reaching for something sweet? 🍫 It’s not just willpower, there’s real science behind it.

When we’re stressed, our body releases cortisol, the stress hormone. Cortisol raises blood sugar to give us a quick energy burst, preparing us to “fight or flee”. The problem is, modern stress doesn’t come from sabre-toothed tigers (well not normally), it’s work, family, traffic, life! So when cortisol rises, we crave sugar to feed that response.

Short-term it might make you feel better, but over time it can leave your blood sugar on a constant rollercoaster, leading to energy dips, mood swings and even more cravings.

Here’s the good news: movement and mindful breathing help reduce cortisol naturally. A few minutes of Pilates, a gentle walk or some deep belly breathing can calm your nervous system and steady those cravings before they hit.

So next time you’re feeling stressed, try this: pause, breathe, move — then decide if you really need that sugar fix. You might be surprised by the answer 💛

Follow me for more tips and exercises.

#NationalSugarWeek #HealthyHabits

#corporatepilates #corporatewellbeing #corporatewellness

#pilates #gateshead #birtley #chesterlestreet #lowfell #pilatesgateshead #pilatesbirtley #dawnchambersfitness

The Surprising Link