SAN RAMON, Calif., Nov. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The health effects of stress may be more far-reaching than previously known. While it's known that stress takes a mental toll, the physical effects of stress are emerging with new research. According to a new study from Brigham Young University, stress could affect our digestive tracts in the same way a poor diet does. While we are still learning the precise effects of stress on the body, it's clear that too much stress is not healthy for either mind or body. The Financial Education Benefits Center will soon offer membership benefits that can help reduce stress, and can make it easier to live a more balanced, healthier lifestyle.
So what does stress do to your gut? Researchers at BYU studied the gut microbiota of mice and found two different interesting results. First, male mice on a high-fat diet that were subjected to stress decreased activity. Second, female mice on a normal diet that were subjected to stress had gut microbiota that matched that of the mice on a poor diet. To sum up, stress could lower physical activity levels and simulate a poor diet, depending on what kind of person (or mouse) you are.
Additionally, chronic stress may lead to wear and tear on the lungs, while acute stress could have dire consequences for heart function.
"It's becoming clear that a healthy life is probably not possible if you're constantly stressed," said Jennifer Martinez, Manager at the Financial Education Benefits Center, "even if you're doing everything else right. FEBC will be offering benefits which may help bring that stress level down. They will help either indirectly just by making life easier, or directly through services with counseling."
Modern life includes so many opportunities for improvement, but it also introduces so many opportunities for stress. In fact, the APA began wondering in 2012 if "stressed out" is the new normal. And it's not just exceptional circumstances. Many people experience everyday stress from work or from taking care of children or elders.
Thankfully, there are ways to reduce stress and many see results when they improve their work-life balance. FEBC members will soon be able to use a benefit that helps them do that. Through an app, members will be able to access resources that make it easier to coordinate all the moving parts of a busy life. Whether you're looking for information for caring for aging parents or need help finding a preschool for your child, the work-life app will have something to offer.
However, stress can also be more serious and need further evaluation and treatment. While many Americans experience mental health issues, the majority of those folks go untreated. Counseling works for a lot of people to reduce stress and address underlying causes. Eligible FEBC members can soon access mental health professionals anytime, day or night. Follow-ups will be included. If necessary, the mental health professional will refer a member to a local specialist for further treatment.
Experts say support from others is a key ingredient to finding relief from stress and the ill health effects that ensue. Sometimes people are afraid to ask for help. But calling on friends, family, colleagues, and professionals for emotional and practical support isn't just a good idea, but likely necessary for a healthy life.
"One of the main ideas behind FEBC is that you don't have to do everything alone," Martinez said. "There are professionals out there to help you in so many aspects of your life. And that may make life that much less overwhelming and less stressful. FEBC may be able to help you get the help you need to live a healthy, stress-free life."
About the Financial Education Benefits Center
The Financial Education Benefits Center is located in San Ramon, California. The Company has already helped thousands of people save money and obtain the necessary education required to live a financially free life.
The Financial Education Benefits Center has partnered with several name brand third-party companies to expand the financial and educational products and services available to its members and to provide a variety of wellness services as well.
Contact
To learn more about the Financial Education Benefits Center, please contact:
Financial Education Benefits Center
2010 Crow Canyon Place Ste. 100
San Ramon, CA 94583
1-800-953-1388
[email protected]
Related Links
Financial Education Benefits Center homepage
SOURCE Financial Education Benefits Center
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