A new study may unveil the secret behind the relationship between stress, poor sleep, and other disruptions in daily life with obesity. The secretion of stress hormones enhances the growth of fat cells in the body. A research group from Stanford University presented this theory at the annual Cell Biology Conference, stating that stress hormones like cortisol, which may be secreted during daily activities, do not affect the growth of fat cells. For example, cortisol is released when waking up, which is normal. However, what caught the attention of these scientists was the relationship between the growth of fat cells and prolonged exposure to stress. For instance, chronic insomnia or separation can lead to the constant secretion of stress hormones, resulting in the production of more fat cells. Although only ten percent of fat cells in the body are replaced each year, the human body stores a significant amount of pre-fat cells that can convert into fat cells. According to Science News, previous research has shown that a protein called PPAR-Gamma controls the production and development of fat cells in the body, and stress hormones activate the process of producing this protein. The research team found that pre-fat cells exposed to low levels of PPAR-Gamma protein (below the natural average) can turn into fat cells when constantly exposed to stress hormones. However, if this stress is not constant, the level of this protein only fluctuates. Researchers say that the effect of stress hormones on obesity is like the effect of gas on the acceleration of a vehicle's engine. If we gradually apply pressure to the gas pedal, the vehicle's speed will eventually increase. However, if we occasionally lift our foot off the pedal, we can control the vehicle's speed. Similarly, the constant secretion of stress hormones activates fat cells. These prolonged stresses arise from factors such as insomnia or other changes in daily routines. In this regard, limited food portions further activate hunger hormones. The Ministry of Health reports that 88% of people in Iran have unhealthy diets, dissatisfaction with their bodies and its consequences, inactivity, the 'silent killer', dietary habits, and obesity.
You Gain Weight with Continuous Stress
A Stanford University study reveals that chronic stress and poor sleep can lead to obesity by enhancing the growth of fat cells through the secretion of stress hormones. The findings highlight the importance of managing stress and sleep for maintaining a healthy weight, especially in the context of rising obesity rates in Iran.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
A study from Stanford University reveals that chronic stress and poor sleep can lead to obesity by promoting the growth of fat cells through stress hormones. This research emphasizes the need for better stress management and sleep hygiene.
- Chronic exposure to stress hormones like cortisol enhances fat cell production.
- 88% of people in Iran reportedly have unhealthy diets, contributing to rising obesity rates.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Obesity is a growing health crisis globally, often linked to lifestyle factors such as stress and diet. In Iran, unhealthy eating habits and sedentary lifestyles exacerbate this issue.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%