9407 Cypress Lake Dr Suite C, Fort Myers, FL
Spano Health and Wellness
(F): 239-799-0203
Stress & Mood
High stress can affect both physical health and mental well‑being. When stress becomes chronic, the body often stays in a prolonged “alarm mode” with elevated cortisol. Over time, this can contribute to weight gain, immune suppression, inflammation, and increased risk of chronic diseases. Stress is also strongly linked to mood challenges such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption.
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Many factors influence how stress impacts us: lifestyle habits, nutritional quality, digestive health, sleep patterns, and environmental pressures. A root‑cause, holistic approach aims to reduce stress effects by supporting body systems rather than simply masking symptoms. Through balanced nutrition, stress‑management strategies, and lifestyle adjustments we help to support resilience: stabilizing mood, supporting the nervous system, and protecting metabolic and immune health.
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For those interested in deeper insight, educational lab testing, such as saliva or blood cortisol panels and neurotransmitter-based urinary or salivary hormone testing, can offer helpful context. These are used not for diagnosis, but to inform personalized nutrition and lifestyle support plans.
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References
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Di Polito N, Stylianakis AA, Richardson R, Baker KD. Real‑World Intake of Dietary Sugars is Associated with Reduced Cortisol Reactivity Following an Acute Physiological Stressor. Nutrients. 2023;15(1):209. doi:10.3390/nu15010209
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Remer T, Shi L, et al. Low‑calorie dieting increases cortisol output and psychological stress. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2010;64(2):110–115. doi:10.1038/ejcn.2009.149
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O’Neil A, Quirk SE, Housden S, Brennan SL, Williams LJ, Pasco JA, Berk M, Jacka FN. Relationship between diet and mental health in children and adolescents: a systematic review. American Journal of Public Health. 2014;104(10):e31–e42. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2014.302110