Stress is an inescapable part of our lives. Many define stress as the mental, emotional, and physical strain you experience when demands exceed your capability. Constant connectivity, mindless scrolling, heavy workloads, peer pressure, unexpected expenses, and overcommitments are all just everyday stressors we have to deal with. It’s only human to encounter stress in your life. Based on the data taken by the American Institute of Stress, about 1 million Americans neglect going to work each day due to this emotion.
However, if you are always on the edge even when everything seems to be going well, you may have what we call chronic stress. In this blog, you will learn everything about how stress affects the brain and ways to combat it.
Research has shown that chronic stress can have devastating effects on the brain, altering its structure, function, and chemistry.
Research (published in Alzheimer's Research & Therapy) concluded that chronic stress can give an invitation to a host of mental conditions. The research quotes “Chronic stress may also increase the risk for dementia via raised risk for depression, cardiovascular disorders, stroke, and autoimmune disorders”.
Your brain can’t differentiate between real or perceived threats. When stressed, it releases a cascade of hormones including cortisol. Short-term cortisol is actually helpful as it provides a quick burst of energy, sharpens focus, and prepares the body to respond rapidly in emergencies. However, prolonged exposure to stress disrupts the natural level of chemicals in the brain. This imbalance can affect mood, memory, appetite, sleep, cognitive function, blood pressure and overall nervous system activity.
Prolonged stress is associated with changes in brain structure, particularly in the hippocampus. This vital region for memory and learning may experience a size reduction, potentially contributing to cognitive decline and memory issues. Additionally, the amygdala, responsible for emotional responses, can become hyperactive, triggering irregular emotional reactions and anxiety.
The prefrontal cortex, crucial for executive functions like:
Let’s see what stress can do at the microscopic level.
Think of your brain as a busy factory. In this factory, one category of workers (molecules) is responsible to fuel your brain and keep things running smoothly. Sometimes, these workers produce tiny molecules called "reactive oxygen species" (ROS)
Now, if there are too many of these ROS and not enough other workers (antioxidants) to neutralize the ROS, we get a condition called oxidative stress. Stress is one of the top reasons for oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress can damage your brain down to cellular and DNA levels and make it vulnerable to neurodegenerative diseases, namely Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Now that we understand just how crucial it is to manage stress, let’s discuss the various ways to care for your mental well-being. Some scientifically proven methods, like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and staying active, have been shown to be effective in bringing down stress levels.
Engaging in mindfulness practices and meditation can reduce stress by promoting relaxation and enhancing focus. Unlike stress, meditation expands the volume of the hippocampus and shrinks the amygdala.
When you engage your muscles in different activities like running, push-ups, or even walking and eating, endorphins are released. Endorphins are your natural anti-stress pills that give you an overall sense of pleasure throughout the body.
A healthy diet, rich in antioxidants and nutrients, supports brain health and helps counteract the oxidative stress induced by chronic stress. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are linked to improved behavior, reasoning, and learning.
Tonicc is a syrup-like supplement made to enhance stress resilience, promote lasting calm energy, and boost focus. Designed to effortlessly blend with your favorite caffeine source, this daily vitality liquid nootropic and adaptogen supplement offer a wide range of benefits:
Don’t just take our word for it. It’s important to understand exactly what you’re putting in your body, and Tonicc is full of effective, scientifically backed ingredients that are known to work. Let’s see how.
A natural adaptogen with anti-inflammatory properties known for enhancing mental clarity, raising stamina, improving athletic performance, and recovery and resilience to stress. According to a study published in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Clinical Practice, Rhodiola rosea extract is the main adaptogen approved by the HMPC/EMA for warding off stress and managing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
A calming amino acid that complements caffeine's energizing effects, whilst reducing jitters and maintaining a focused, alert state. In the National Library of Medicine, it is shown that the stress-related symptom decreases significantly after 4 weeks of L-theanine administration.
Essential nutrients that support brain health, energy, and overall well-being. Vitamin B6 and B12 also envelop your body with a warm, soothing feeling.
Another study published in the National Library of Medicine asserts that these nutrients work great in treating mood disorders and revealing symptoms of fear, anxiety and even depression.
Many people will notice effects within 30 minutes and feel residual benefits throughout the day. Others will notice benefits with continual use over time.
Daily Vitality comes with a Happiness Promise, allowing you to try it for over a month with minimal risk. Physical signs such as stable energy, improved work performance, and better focus are indicators of its efficacy. Additionally, health trackers or smartwatches can measure Heart Rate Variability and stress scores to provide tangible evidence of the supplement's impact.
Your brain works for you 24/7. It deserves to be cared for and nourished. Whether you have everyday acute stress or have been struggling with stress for years, Tonicc offers a smart and convenient solution. Embrace the journey toward enhanced focus, sustained energy, and a relaxed demeanor.
Contact us now to get your own today. Your brain will thank you!
