fit tips
MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
The male reproductive system
is significantly influenced by
the nervous system. In the male
anatomy, the ANS produces
testosterone and activates the SNS
which creates arousal.
Stress causes the body to
release the hormone cortisol.
Excess amounts of cortisol can
affect the normal biochemical
functioning of the male
reproductive system. Chronic
stress can also affect testosterone
production, sperm production,
maturation, and even cause
erectile dysfunction or impotence.
FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
Menstruation
Stress can affect menstruation
among adolescent girls and
women. High levels of stress
may be associated with irregular
menstrual cycles, painful periods,
and changes in the length
of cycles.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Stress can make premenstrual
symptoms worse for many
women. Symptoms include
cramping, fluid retention,
bloating, and mood swings.
Menopause
Hormone levels fluctuate rapidly
at the onset of menopause.
These are associated with
anxiety, mood swings, and
distress. Women who are more
anxious may experience an
increased number of hot flashes
and/or more severe or intense
hot flashes.
Sexual Desire
Chronic stress and fatigue
can result in reduced sexual
desire, especially when women
are simultaneously caring for
young children and/or other
family members, coping with
chronic medical problems,
feeling depressed, experiencing
relationship issues and/or abuse,
work stress, etc.
manage
stress
through
exercise
The physical benefits of exercise
have long been established.
Exercise is considered vital for
maintaining mental fitness and
reducing stress. Studies have
demonstrated that exercise is
effective at reducing fatigue
and enhancing overall cognitive
function. When stress affects
the brain, the entire body feels
the impact. Exercise produces
endorphins in the brain that
act as natural painkillers and
help improve sleep, which in
turn reduces stress. Meditation
can cause our body to produce
endorphins as well. Scientific
studies have demonstrated that
regular aerobic exercise reduces
tension, stabilizes mood, and
improves sleep and self-esteem.
Plenty of sleep compounded with
a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco
use, excess caffeine, and alcohol
intake would provide significant
help in our quest towards a
balanced life and successful
stress management.
January 2016 | 15