Stress

Definition

Stress is the body's response to any demand or challenge, which can affect physical and mental well-being. Chronic stress can lead to various health issues by disrupting homeostasis and impacting neurological functions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chronic stress can negatively impact brain function, leading to disorders such as anxiety and depression.
2. Stress influences eating behaviors, often resulting in poor dietary choices that can exacerbate neurological issues.
3. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress by releasing cortisol.
4. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamins B6, B12, and folate, can worsen the effects of stress on the nervous system.
5. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to help mitigate the effects of stress on brain health by supporting neuronal function.

Review Questions

• How does chronic stress affect neurological function?
• What role does nutrition play in managing the impact of stress on the nervous system?
• Which nutrients are especially important for mitigating the effects of stress on brain health?

Related terms

Cortisol: A hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress that helps regulate metabolism and immune response.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis: A complex set of interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands that control reactions to stress.

Neurotransmitters: Chemical messengers in the brain that transmit signals between neurons; imbalances can be affected by chronic stress.