Many Americans face stress regularly, whether from work deadlines, financial pressures, or personal obligations. While short-term stress is a normal part of life, chronic stress can increase the risk of serious health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Stress affects not only mental health but also physical well-being.

Holidays bring to mind thoughts of family, friends, food and fun. But each year, millions of Americans struggle to maintain their waistlines during the holidays while surrounded by tempting holiday treats.

Many of us have dealt with some form of stress in our lifetime. Stress is a normal psychological and physical response to stimuli we encounter. However, with overexposure, our bodies can become disrupted, triggering an array of health problems. Chronic stress impacts every organ system in our body and can ultimately affect our overall quality of life.