Life rarely slows down, and unfortunately, neither does stress. Between work, relationships, and the constant noise of daily life, it can feel impossible to truly unwind. But what many people don’t realize is that ongoing stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it can actually speed up how your body ages.
Dr. Corey Howard takes a science-backed approach to understanding how stress impacts your healthspan. As a board-certified expert in internal and functional medicine and founder of Howard Health & Wellness in Naples, Florida, he helps patients manage the internal effects of stress so they can stay resilient for years to come.
How Stress Speeds Up Aging
When you experience stress, your body releases cortisol, a hormone meant to help you handle short-term challenges. But when stress becomes constant, so does cortisol.
Over time, that overload can damage cells, increase inflammation, disrupt sleep, and throw hormones out of balance. These changes can lead to faster aging, lower energy, and even a weakened immune system.
Five Ways to Reduce Stress and Slow Aging
The good news is that you have more control than you think. Here are five ways to help your body and mind recover from the wear and tear of stress:
1. Breathe and Reset
Taking a few minutes each day for deep breathing or meditation helps calm your nervous system and lower cortisol levels. Even short pauses can reset your body’s stress response.
2. Move Every Day
Exercise is one of the best natural stress relievers. It supports heart health, boosts mood, and helps your body process stress hormones more efficiently.
3. Sleep Smarter
Your body repairs itself during sleep. A consistent bedtime and a dark, cool room can improve sleep quality and reduce the toll stress takes on your body.
4. Eat for Calm
Whole, nutrient-dense foods help stabilize blood sugar and reduce inflammation. Limiting processed foods and sugar can also improve mood and focus.
5. Rebalance Hormones
Chronic stress often disrupts hormones like cortisol, estrogen, and testosterone. Dr. Howard uses advanced testing and longevity medicine to identify imbalances. He can design a personalized plan that supports your long-term health.
Take Control of How You Age
Stress is part of life, but it doesn’t have to define how you age. Call 239-331-2285 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Corey Howard at Howard Health & Wellness in Naples, FL, and start creating a healthier future.
