Angela Gioffre Nutritionist with 25 years of experience.

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Stress affects all of us, but it doesn’t always show up as “feeling stressed.”
Sometimes it hides in everyday symptoms we’ve learned to ignore.

As a nutritionist I love diving into the way our bodies work, and stress is one of those fascinating forces that touches every system in subtle (and sometimes surprising) ways. For some people, the signs are obvious… but for many of us, the early indicators are incredibly easy to overlook.

Recognising these hidden signs can be life-changing — because once you understand what your body is trying to tell you, you can start supporting it properly.

The 5 Hidden Signs of Stress Most People Miss

1. Stomach Issues You Can’t Explain

Indigestion, bloating, cramping, “butterflies,” or unpredictable bowel movements can all be signs that stress is disrupting your gut–brain connection.
When stress hormones rise, they can alter beneficial gut bacteria and slow or speed up digestion — leaving you uncomfortable, even on a “normal” day.

2. Cravings… or Zero Appetite

Cortisol (your primary stress hormone) changes your hunger signals.

For some, it triggers cravings for sugar, carbs, and salty snacks.
For others, it completely shuts down appetite as the body goes into “fight or flight.”

Stress can also disturb leptin and ghrelin, the hormones that tell you when you’re hungry and when you’re full. If your eating patterns feel all over the place, stress may be the reason.

3. Broken Sleep (Especially 2–3am Wake-Ups)

If you're waking up at 2–3am, that’s often a clue.

Elevated cortisol can disrupt your natural sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep… and even harder to stay asleep. Over time, that broken sleep increases stress further — creating a loop that’s tough to escape without the right tools.

4. Body Tension You Carry Without Realising

Tight shoulders. A stiff neck. Jaw clenching. Lower back ache.

Muscle tension is one of the body’s classic stress responses.
If you constantly feel “tight” or sore, even when you haven’t done anything strenuous, chronic stress may be the culprit.

5. Brain Fog or Feeling Mentally “Flat”

Stress affects cognition more than most people realise.

Trouble concentrating, forgetting small things, or feeling mentally “slow” often happens when stress hormones interfere with neurotransmitters in your brain.

If brain fog is getting in the way of your productivity or creativity, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most common stress-related symptoms.

(If you need support with mental clarity, our Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules are a powerful natural way to support focus, mood, and cognitive function.)

How to Reduce Stress Naturally

The good news?
These signs don’t have to become “your normal.”
Here are some simple, science-backed ways to calm the body and support your nervous system:

1. Try the 4-7-8 Breathing Technique

A fast way to activate the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) system and calm anxiety.

2. Support Your Adrenals With Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a well-researched adaptogen that helps balance cortisol and support the nervous system.
Many people report feeling calmer, sleeping better, and handling stress more easily.

3. Go for a 10-Minute Walk

Movement releases endorphins — your natural “feel good” chemicals — and helps reduce adrenaline and cortisol.

4. Drink More Water Than You Think You Need

Dehydration increases cortisol.
Just improving hydration can noticeably improve mood and energy.

5. Break Tasks Into Smaller Steps

Overwhelm is a huge stress trigger.
Chunking tasks makes them feel manageable again.

6. Reach Out for Support

You don’t have to push through alone. Talking to a friend, therapist, or support group can make stress feel lighter and far less isolating.

Final Thought

Stress shows up differently for everyone — but your body always gives clues.
When you learn to listen to them, you can take back control of your health, your energy, and your peace of mind.

If you’d like natural support for stress, sleep, and clarity, two of our most-loved whole food supplements are:

• Ashwagandha Capsules — for calm, balance, and relaxation

• Lion’s Mane Capsules — for clarity, focus, and cognitive support