These six foods will help you avoid gaining weight during times of stress

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Stress affects each person differently. Someone may have trouble sleeping because of it, and someone may start to overeat. And here's how not to gain extra pounds during such a difficult period.

During times of stress, the human body releases the hormone cortisol. Scientific studies show that high cortisol levels are often associated with abdominal obesity.

One reason cortisol can contribute to weight gain is that it raises blood sugar levels. There is scientific evidence that this hormone also increases appetite, which increases the risk of overeating. In addition, cortisol affects energy expenditure and metabolism.

Here are some foods that will help reduce the impact of cortisol on your body.

Fruits.A diet high in refined foods, saturated fats, and added sugars can increase cortisol levels compared to a balanced diet (which includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and unsaturated fats). In addition, fruits contain fiber (which is very filling) and are low in calories.

Whole grains. These include oats, quinoa, brown rice, whole grain bread, and more. Whole grains contain fiber, which helps you feel full, and a certain form of fiber is a prebiotic, which reduces the body's response to stress. It supports the level of good bacteria in the intestines.

Legumes. Beans and lentils have many beneficial properties. Among them are improved digestion, as well as prebiotic functions. You can add lentils to your favorite soup, for example.

Yogurt. It contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that live in the human gut. Probiotics can improve mood and reduce anxiety and stress levels.