For most of us, stress is a fact of life. Unfortunately, recent research reveals that it's also a fact of fat……..Anxiety is a powerful trigger for weight gain, but with these seven steps you can get your stress levels and your weight under control, and improve your overall health at the same time……Drop and Do 10…….  Moving your muscles actually fools your body into thinking you're escaping the source of your stress. Even taking a stroll on your lunch break is beneficial…Go Slowly at Meals, Under stress we tend to scarf down even healthy food,   But slowing down, savoring each bite, and paying attention to feelings of fullness may lower stress levels along with decreasing the amount of food you eat….. Stop Strict Dieting, It's ironic, but research shows that constant dieting can make stress levels rise as much as 18%. In addition, your blood sugar goes haywire, this makes you cranky and hungry……  Give In to Cravings—a Little, When stress drives you toward something sweet or salty, it's okay to yield a little. It's much better to indulge in a small way and cut off your stress response before it gets out of control….. Curtail Caffeine, Next time you're under duress, choose decaf. ….Power Up Breakfast, Deficiencies in B vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium are stressful to your body. But you can fight back by eating a breakfast that's high in these nutrients. some OJ, a grapefruit, or a large handful of strawberries to supply vitamin C; yogurt/calcium/magnesium; and a whole grain bagel or toast with a bit of peanut butter/protein/B vitamins…….AND…… Sleep It Off The most effective stress-reduction strategy of all: Get enough shut-eye, Your body perceives sleep deprivation as a major stressor, wich means weight gain. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7 to 9 hours……..

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