Why “Doing the Most” Might Be Hurting Your Heart

I saw this information the other day and it really made me think. Or should I say, rethink, a lot of what we’ve been told and/or buy into, in our Americanized consumerist-productivity culture.

Apparently, people still don’t know this...

Chronic stress isn’t just exhausting your mind.
It’s silently changing your blood chemistry.

I mean this is mind blowing!!! (To say the least)

According to a report from WebMD, chronic stress can actually raise your cholesterol.
Yes—stress. Not fried chicken. Not bacon.
Stress.

This. Is. Unbelievable!!

Here’s how: when you’re constantly anxious, your body floods with cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones are helpful in short bursts. But when they stay elevated, they create inflammation and trigger a rise in blood sugar and fat levels, especially LDL (the “bad” cholesterol).

Over time, this increases your risk of:

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Type 2 diabetes

• And even memory loss

So all this time I’ve been watching what I eat, but not watching what stresses me the heck out.

The Bible Saw It Coming

The scriptures consistently point us to moderation and simplicity.
Philippians 4:5-6 says,

And Proverbs 17:1 says,

We weren’t designed for chaos and overload.
God built our bodies and spirits to thrive in rhythm—not in constant pressure.

It’s really quite miraculous the things we find in scripture that teach and relate to living holistic and healthy.

What Can You Do?

If you’re a high-performing professional, you already know you can’t just quit everything.
But you can reclaim peace without losing productivity.

Try this:

1. Simplify your space – A cluttered home or desk stresses the brain.

2. Practice saying “no” – Not every opportunity is from God.

3. Eat slow, not just clean – Rushed eating spikes stress.

4. Fast once a week – Not just from food, but from screens and noise.

5. Pray in stillness – Let the Holy Spirit remind you that your value isn’t based on output.

You Don’t Have to Do It All

We don’t gain God’s love by achieving more.
And we don’t lose His presence when we rest.

Stress isn’t a badge of honor. It’s a warning light.

Slow down. Simplify. Let your body—and your spirit—breathe again.

This article is not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare provider if you’re concerned about cholesterol, heart health, or chronic stress.

So here’s the thing…