Some stress is actually good for you

 

If you’ve ever struggled through a tough day at the office, you know how uncomfortable the feeling of stress can be. Stress is a common health concern as well, with new science always coming out on what new problems too much stress can create.

What may surprise you to learn however is that stress can also be good for you too. Here are just a couple ways a reasonable amount of stress can actually be good for you.

It can make you smarter

Low levels of stress cause your brain to produce neurotrophins, and also helps strengthens neuron connections in the brain. Together this helps to make you smarter. While more studies need done, scientists think this may be why physical activity (a stressor for the body) can boost focus and concentration.

It temporarily boosts immunity

When you feel low levels of stress, it prompts your body to temporarily boost your immune system. In fact, a 2012 study found that mild stress lead to a “massive mobilization” of immune fighting cells. While the effects are temporary, if you regularly exercise for example, you’ll benefit from that boost.

Helps build resilience

While too much stress can damage your DNA and RNA through oxidation, a little stress can actually help them learn how to combat these stressers. Scientists think low levels of stress help DNA and RNA learn to cope with oxidation so they don’t freeze up with larger amounts of stress.

 

Stress is generally bad, but only in huge amounts. The stress you get from mild stress, such as exercising isn’t bad for your body—it might even be good. When you get stressed during the day, it’s good to remind yourself that stress isn’t always deadly. Sometimes it can be a real benefit to your body.

 

https://www.health.com/condition/stress/5-weird-ways-stress-can-actually-be-good-for-you

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23490070/

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