Quiz Answers

Here are the answers to the 29 June Quiz Challenge

1. The hormone known as cortisol helps the body manage stress.

• True
• False

Explanation: Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It plays a vital role in helping the body manage and cope with stress. Cortisol is often referred to as the "stress hormone" because it is released in higher levels during stressful situations. It helps regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, blood pressure, and the body's inflammatory response. However, consistently high levels of cortisol due to chronic stress can have negative effects on health.

2. Which one of these activities is NOT helpful in reducing stress?

• Exercise
• Meditation
• Laughter
• Self-isolation

Explanation:Exercise promotes the release of endorphins, improving mood and reducing muscle tension, leading to stress reduction. Meditation calms the mind, enhances mindfulness, and lowers stress hormone levels, fostering relaxation and emotional well-being. Laughing releases endorphins, reduces stress hormone levels, and provides a distraction from stressors, resulting in a lighter mood. Combined, these activities create a well-rounded stress management routine, addressing both physical and mental aspects of stress.Self-isolation does not allow for developing social connections that provide emotional support, relaxation, and a sense of belonging, aiding in stress reduction.

3. In response to stress, cortisol levels rise, causing an increase in blood sugar levels.

• True
• False

Explanation: In response to stress, cortisol levels rise, and one of the effects of cortisol is to increase blood sugar levels. Cortisol helps regulate glucose metabolism in the body by stimulating the release of glucose from energy stores, such as the liver, into the bloodstream. This process provides the body with a quick source of energy to respond to the stressor. However, prolonged or chronic elevation of cortisol due to chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of blood sugar levels and contribute to conditions like insulin resistance and diabetes.

4. How does chronic stress negatively effect the body?

• Increased risk of insulin resistance
• Increased risk of weight gain
• Poor appetite regulation
• All of the above

Explanation: Chronic, high levels of cortisol can have negative effects on the body, including insulin resistance and an increased risk of weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area. Chronic stress can also disrupt other hormones like ghrelin and leptin, involved in metabolism and appetite regulation, leading to changes in the quantities of food intake and energy expenditure.

5. Which of these are healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress?

• Staying physically active
• Getting enough sleep
• Spending time with friends and family
• All of the above

Explanation: Staying physically active, getting enough sleep, and spending time with friends and family are healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress. Physical activity releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress. Sufficient sleep supports overall well-being and resilience to stress. Social connections provide emotional support, relaxation, and a sense of belonging, aiding in stress reduction. These practices promote balance, relaxation, and positive mental health.