Stress and our health:
Stress is an epidemic in our society. It literally causes or contributes to a multitude of diseases and conditions. We all seem to be on overdrive most of the time and this really takes it's tool. Everyone knows that they are t0o busy. Everyone knows that they need to press reset more often. We are driven to distraction and constantly pushing through until we finally burn out. 

"Life is not a stress rehearsal"
~Anon

Alzheimer's disease (AD), is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by cognitive decline and memory loss. Alzheimer's disease has skyrocketed in the US. Did you know that a part of your brain called the  hippocampus is crucial for memory and spatial navigation? It plays a key role in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease. 
When experiencing stress, the hippocampus, can be significantly affected, leading to potential impairments in memory function due to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can shrink the hippocampus and disrupt its normal activity; essentially, chronic stress can damage the hippocampus, impacting memory consolidation and retrieval abilities. 
Key points about stress and the hippocampus: 

• Mechanism:
  Stress hormones, primarily cortisol, bind to receptors in the hippocampus, causing changes in neuronal structure and function, including reduced neurogenesis (new neuron growth) and impaired synaptic plasticity (the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken based on activity). 
• Impact on memory:
  Chronic stress can lead to difficulties in forming new memories, retrieving existing memories, and spatial navigation, all functions heavily reliant on the hippocampus. 
  
  
• Structural changes:
• Studies have shown that prolonged stress can result in a decrease in hippocampal volume, indicating a physical shrinkage of the region. 
• 
  Acute stress effects:
• While acute stress can sometimes enhance memory consolidation for emotionally significant events, prolonged or severe stress consistently leads to negative impacts on hippocampal function. 
  
  
  

Stress can impact the brain and body in many ways, including:

• Mental health
  Stress can cause or worsen anxiety, depression, and PTSD. It can also lead to changes in mood and emotional responses. 
• Brain function
  Stress can cause inflammation and dysfunction in the brain, which can affect memory and concentration. It can also increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's disease. 
• Sleep
  Stress can disrupt sleep, which can lead to a buildup of stress-related toxins in the brain. 
• Digestive health
  Stress can cause digestive problems like acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. It can also exacerbate inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 
• Immune system
  Stress can disrupt the immune system, making it harder to fight infections and recover from wounds. 
• Heart health
  Stress can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. 
• Skin health
  Stress can cause flare-ups of acne or eczema. 
• Weight
  Stress can lead to weight gain. 
• Other symptoms
  Stress can cause aches and pains, low energy, headaches, migraines, and muscle tension. 
  
  Stress is a slow killer. Chronic stress is one of the most devastating forces that impacts our health and wellness, physically, mentally and emotionally 

 
     I can work with you to help you slow down, manage stress, and live a more balanced and peaceful life.