In this Live Event, we discussed one of the most recurring topics as summer approaches: the search for quick results to lose weight and transform the body. We analyzed why extreme diets, restrictions, and excessive demands often have the opposite effect of what we are looking for, and how stress, habits, and the relationship we have with ourselves directly influence our health and body composition. The conversation featured Dr. Valentina Stamati, a functional medicine doctor specializing in Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) and author of the book Regula tu estrés, encuentra tu equilibrio, and Susana Pacheco, a wellness coach and creator of the neuro-reprogramming method for eating. The session was moderated by Adrià Martí, a biotechnologist and healthy partnership manager at be levels. Key takeaways The problem isn't summer, but the rush A common reality was brought to the table: many people try to compensate for months of neglected habits in just a few weeks. Highly restrictive diets, prolonged fasting, or excessive training can generate more physiological stress and hinder the very results they are seeking. Cortisol is not the enemy Valentina explained that cortisol is a hormone essential for life. It plays a role in regulating energy, blood pressure, the immune system, and the ability to face the day. The problem arises when it remains elevated chronically and loses its natural rhythm. Cortisol follows a circadian rhythm Under normal conditions, cortisol peaks in the morning to help us get energized and gradually decreases throughout the day to allow for melatonin production and nighttime rest. When this rhythm is disrupted, symptoms such as insomnia, fatigue, or difficulty losing weight appear. Modern stressors are altering our physiology Constant exposure to screens, artificial light at night, lack of rest, work pressure, or extreme diets were highlighted as some of the main factors that disrupt hormonal balance and keep the body in a state of high alert. Excessive restriction can be counterproductive It was noted that strategies such as prolonged fasting, very low-calorie diets, or excessive elimination of carbohydrates are not always appropriate. In certain contexts, they can further increase physiological stress and hinder metabolic recovery. Stress, inflammation, and abdominal fat gain When cortisol remains elevated for long periods, it can promote insulin resistance, increase low-grade inflammation, and facilitate fat accumulation, especially in the abdominal area. Stress also affects digestion and the immune system The session addressed how sustained stress alters the gut microbiota, worsens digestion, promotes the onset of dysbiosis, and reduces the body's ability to recover and maintain a balanced immune system. Sleeping well is a therapeutic tool Emphasis was placed on the importance of sleep as a hormonal regulator. Frequent nighttime awakenings, shallow sleep, or feeling tired upon waking can be signs that the stress axis is disrupted. Natural light in the morning changes more than it seems One of the most repeated tips was to expose yourself to sunlight during the first minutes of the day. This habit helps synchronize circadian rhythms, improve hormonal production, and foster higher-quality rest at night. Knowing what to do isn't enough: you have to understand why we don't do it Susana focused on a key issue: many people know perfectly well which habits they should follow but cannot maintain them. The problem often lies in the relationship they have with themselves and the unconscious patterns that condition their behavior. Self-concept, self-image, and self-esteem It was explained how a person's self-perception directly influences their daily decisions. The story we tell ourselves about who we are can become a determining factor in maintaining healthy habits or sabotaging our own progress. The body can change before the mind An interesting reflection was that many people continue to see themselves the same way even after they have improved physically. Internal perception needs time to adapt to changes and, if not worked on, it can become a constant source of frustration. The modern "superwoman" is exhausted We discussed the physical and mental burden many women carry: work, family, responsibilities, organization, and taking care of others. This state of constant demand hinders connection with one's own needs and perpetuates chronic stress. We often don't eat because of hunger It was highlighted that food can become a tool to manage emotions, stress, fatigue, or the need to disconnect. Understanding what function eating serves at any given moment is fundamental to building a healthier relationship with food. True transformation begins long before the diet The final message was clear: sustainable results do not come from quick fixes or aesthetic pressure. They arise from building consistent habits, reducing stress, prioritizing rest, and developing a kinder relationship with your own body. Products mentioned in this live [PROD]magnesium[/PROD][PROD]chill-mood[/PROD][PROD]be-calm[/PROD][PROD]omega3[/PROD][PROD]digestya[/PROD]
