Impact of stress on the body: cancer and chronic stress

Stress is the body's natural ability to recognise danger and protect itself from it. How does this happen?

In a threatening situation , the brain prepares the body to react quickly - fight or flight. It allows it to do so by activating the HPA ( hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal ) axis and releasing the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. These changes cause:

airway dilation,
increased blood pressure,
acceleration of the heart rate,
stimulation of the central nervous system,
increased glucose levels,
suppression of the immune, digestive and reproductive systems.

Stress on cancer, photo: panthermedia

The appearance of these reactions from time to time is very necessary and healthy. However, chronic stress causes stress-related changes to occur constantly. The body behaves as if it is in constant danger, and this weakens its protective functions. Frequent infections, gastrointestinal disorders and even cancer occur.

How does chronic stress affect cancer?

Changes in the body due to chronic stress can cause:

the formation and progression of cancer,

impaired functioning of the immune system,
a reduction in the body's ability to fight cancer,
tumour growth and the appearance of metastases,
exacerbation of inflammatory conditions,
reduced effectiveness of cancer therapy.

According to research, stress is a factor that increases the risk of cancer. However, it affects a person not only on a biological level, but also on a psychological level. It causes a person to make decisions that may further contribute to cancer, especially when it comes to daily diet.

How does chronic stress affect diet and cancer?

Diet has a significant impact on everyone's health. It provides the nutrients needed and helps protect the body from disease. Chronic stress can make it significantly more difficult to maintain healthy eating habits and cause consequences that can lead to cancer.

Unhealthy eating habits and the development of cancer, photo: panthermedia

Cravings for unhealthy food: chronic stress and cancer

People who experience stress on a daily basis are much more prone to succumb to unhealthy food temptations. Stress forces them to reach for highly processed foods, high in fat, sugar and salt, and this can lead to cancer. How does this happen?

The effect of diet on the formation of inflammation: chronic stress and cancer

One of the main problems of unhealthy food is saturated fat, which, combined with high amounts of sugar, leads to the appearance of chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation caused by stress and unhealthy food interferes with cell repair processes and ultimately increases the risk of tumour formation.

The impact of diet on nutrient deficiencies: chronic stress and cancer

Unhealthy eating habits caused by chronic stress can lead to serious deficiencies of important vitamins and minerals. Vitamin D, antioxidants, omega 3 and 6 acids, B vitamins and iron, among others, are particularly important for the body's health. The presence of these components supports the immune system and protects cells from damage.

Cortisol a cancer-promoting factor, photo: panthermedia

Eating nutrient-poor foods can lead to impaired immune system function and the appearance of cancer.

Chronic stress not only leads to the formation of direct changes in the body, but also forces the body to make decisions that further weaken it. So how can we protect ourselves from the damaging effects of stress and, as a consequence, possibly cancer?

The impact of physical activity on stress: chronic stress and cancer

Physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, excess of which can contribute to cancer. Running, swimming, walking or practising yoga not only help to lower cortisol levels, but also increase the production of endorphins. Consequently, practising regular physical activity will support the body's immune system and may help to protect against cancer.

Effects of relaxation techniques on stress: chronic stress and cancer

Nowadays, practising relaxation techniques is becoming increasingly popular. Regular practice of relaxation involves calming the breathing, reducing the rush of thoughts and striving to be in the here and now. Relaxation techniques include:

meditation,
progressive muscle relaxation,
visualisation.

Can chronic stress cause cancer, photo: panthermedia

We can practice these techniques on our own, using various online sources or enrol in professional classes. Regular use of relaxation techniques teaches the body how to cope with stress and, as a result, reduces the likelihood of affecting cancer.

Chronic stress negatively affects the body. It leads to unhealthy eating habits, increasing the risk of developing cancer. A healthy diet, regular physical activity and practising relaxation will help to maintain mental and physical health.

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Can chronic stress lead to cancer?

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