"The problem lies within our neuroendocrine system, a network of glands that produce and secrete hormones into the bloodstream," says Nadine Tengco, a US-certified fitness nutritionist and weight management specialist. As soon as the body experiences stress, the system releases hormones called cortisol that increase appetite and energy levels. Even after stress passes, these hormonal levels can remain elevated especially if the person is subjected to chronic stress. "Your appetite increases, ultimately driving you to eat more," Tengco adds. That’s where the problem lies—more stress equals more weight gain.

In the days of prehistoric man, this was not a problem. Stress was typically brought on by physical danger, which required the fight or flight response. This type of stress often meant the body actually needed a replenishment of energy, thereby justifying the appetite increase driven by hormones such as cortisol.

"Often, our response to stress today is to sit and stew in our frustration and anger, without expending any of the calories or food stores that we would if we were physically fighting our way out of stress or danger," says Tengco. The neuroendocrine system does not recognize the absence of the fight or flight response—it does what the brain tells it to do, and constantly makes the body hunger for more energy, and consequently for more food, resulting, of course, in unanticipated weight gain.

While it would be ideal to take time out each day to de-stress and detoxify in order to maintain the right weight, the reality of today’s modern world has made stress part and parcel of daily living. The balance between a progressive work schedule and a fit body has become a constant struggle. People are continually on the look out for new methods of re-introducing health into the way they live their lives. "Since you cannot avoid stress, you need to have the right, holistic attitude towards maintaining the right weight. The big three consists of proper nutrition, exercise and relaxation," says Tengco.

Luckily, today’s health conscious individual will also find another ally to support these steps to improved well-being. Medical studies have shown that a measured and precise amount of green tea induces thermogenesis—the body’s ability to generate heat and increase metabolism. "Green tea contains catechin polyphenols that certainly increase metabolism and the rate at which the body burns fat," says Tengco.

What’s more, Tengco adds that green tea is also the most effective anti-oxidant available, and has energizing and relaxing effects. In effect, green tea does not only combat the tendency towards weight gain during times of stress, it also soothes nerves, taking away any feelings of tension, worry or anxiety.

While all green tea contains polyphenols, it’s important to note that the proper ratio of ingredients is essential in maximizing the many advantages of green tea. "Of course you cannot maximize the benefits of green tea if you don’t consume the right amount," explains Tengco. For thermogenesis to actually occur, one must take in an average of 10 cups of green tea per day—not very convenient, especially for people on the go.

Luckily, the very ingredients that make green tea work can now be found in capsule form, with each pill containing just the exact amount of catechin polyphenols, green tea’s main ingredient, needed to jumpstart one’s metabolism.

Universal Nutrition’s ThermoGreen Tea, available at Healthy Options, packs in as much punch as the daily requirement of 10 cups of green tea--even more effective because it accurately measures just the right amount of green tea needed on a day-to-day basis. This supplement, coupled with exercise and a proper diet, perfectly battles any weight gain threats posed by stress. "Supplements help in ensuring that you’ll have a balanced diet," adds Tengco. "They enhance and support weight loss, especially if you combine with the proper diet and exercise."

While stressful times can increase one’s tendency to gain weight, it is important not to go in the other direction and avoid food altogether. "Engage yourself in mindful eating," advises Tengco. An intake of healthy and flavorful food every three to four hours helps stave off the effects of stress and keeps one’s blood sugar stable.

She also suggests finding activities that make you feel relaxed and calm to combat stress. Green tea is an effective measure to bring about a sense of calming peacefulness amidst stress.

With ThermoGreen Tea, keeping fit becomes effortless. It is certainly a comfort knowing that one can deal with stress without having to worry about gaining any weight and losing that much coveted healthy lifestyle.