Stress

​Stress has some mysterious effects on the human body, with more and more research linking its presence to all kinds of negative health outcomes. Now scientists have developed a new kind of sensor that can be used to keep tabs on stress levels, requiring just single drop of bodily fluid.

A striking study has discovered that eating while stressed may lead to greater weight gain than if the same caloric load was consumed in a stress-free environment. The study reveals a molecular pathway activated by stress can alter the body’s metabolic processes and lead to increased weight gain.

A new study has found a strong association between increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol and impaired memory in middle-aged adults. The research suggests that extended periods of stress while a person is in their 40s and 50s can result in reduced cognitive skills, and even brain shrinkage.

​It would be an understatement to say that a lot of people suffer from too much stress. Unfortunately, though, it can sometimes be difficult to determine just what the causes of that stress are. VivaLNK's new Vital Scout is designed to help you find out.

A team has developed the first wearable skin sensor that can measure a person’s cortisol levels from their sweat. Cortisol, a hormone that spikes in response to stress, is an important biomarker for scientists that can help measure everything from emotional stress to metabolism and immune function.

A massive study spanning 30 years of data and examining a cohort of over one million people has found a strong association between persons suffering from stress disorders, including PTSD, and an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and Crohn’s disease.

A compelling new study suggests that activity in the placenta could be the missing link connecting environmental factors with genetics in relation to the development of many behavioral disorders, including schizophrenia.

​As an ageing, overweight player of video games, I've always assumed games are a significant part of my too-sedentary lifestyle. But recent research suggests that stress markers and associated food consumption could be a bigger factor in gaming than television-viewing.

​A recent study sheds new light on why people gain weight from long-term stress and disruption to their circadian rhythms. It also helps to explain weight gain from the use of glucocorticoid drugs, which are often used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and asthma.

​A new study from researchers at the University of British Columbia has revealed that the scent of a person’s partner can tangibly reduce feelings of stress and literally lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

If you’re feeling stressed, you might want to think twice before seeking comfort in junk food. A new study from the Max Planck Institute has found that a stress-related protein could increase the chances of diabetes and obesity, but blocking that protein could prevent those illnesses from occurring.

Having trouble relaxing? If so, UK-based BioSelf Technology might suggest trying out its new device, called Sensate. It sits against the user's chest throughout the day, buzzing their breastbone when they start getting stressed out.