Stress is likely the most dangerous toxin that your body faces on a daily basis.

Stress changes gene expression. The chemicals produced by the body when it is under stress can either turn on or off genes that change how much fat you store, how well your immune system works, how fast you age, and whether or not you will develop cancer.

Early life events determine your set point for stress. Early childhood events set your corticotropin-releasing hormone at high or low. This hormone turns on your adrenals, and therefore your response to stress.

Stress causes brain damage. High levels of stress hormones damage critical parts of the brain such as the hippocampus.

Stress shuts down the immune system and increases inflammation. Stress can slow down healing and increase your susceptibility to infections. It can also activate latent infections such as cold sores.

A few of the best things you can do to relieve your stress are:

• Exercise
• Get good sleep
• Spend time in nature
• Get a hobby
• Less screen time and news
• Eat less sugar, caffeine, energy drinks
• Confide in someone you trust
• Use a quality CBD oil (ask me about which one)