Can Stress and Anxiety Worsen Low Metabolism?
Yes, stress and anxiety can significantly worsen low metabolism by disrupting the body’s hormonal balance and energy regulation. When you experience chronic stress, your body releases cortisol, the primary stress hormone, which prepares the body for a “fight or flight” response. While short-term increases in cortisol are normal, prolonged elevation can slow down thyroid activity and suppress important metabolic functions. High cortisol levels also promote fat storage - particularly around the abdomen - while simultaneously breaking down muscle tissue, which is metabolically active and helps burn calories. Over time, this hormonal imbalance can make it harder to lose weight, increase fatigue, and reduce overall calorie expenditure.
Anxiety contributes to the same problem by interfering with sleep, digestion, and appetite-regulating hormones, further compounding metabolic slowdown. When sleep is disrupted, hunger hormones like ghrelin rise while satiety hormones like leptin decrease, leading to increased cravings and overeating. Additionally, anxiety often causes muscle tension and reduced physical activity, which can further lower energy use. Managing stress through mindfulness, deep breathing, physical exercise, and proper sleep can help restore hormonal balance and improve metabolism. By addressing both emotional and physical well-being, individuals can prevent stress-related metabolic decline and support long-term energy balance.
