Yes, it is possible to burn more calories when you are stressed. When your body experiences stress, it activates the "fight or flight" response, which triggers various physiological changes to prepare you to deal with the perceived threat or challenge. These changes include an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
One of the effects of these physiological changes is an increase in energy expenditure. As your body gears up to respond to the stressor, it requires more energy to fuel the increased heart rate, maintain muscle tension, and support other bodily functions involved in the stress response.
However, the increase in calorie burning due to stress is generally modest and might not significantly impact your overall energy balance. Moreover, chronic or prolonged stress can have negative effects on health, leading to potential weight gain due to other factors, such as changes in eating habits and disrupted sleep patterns.
While some short-term stress might lead to a temporary increase in calorie burning, it's essential to manage stress effectively for overall health and well-being. Engaging in stress-reducing activities like exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, and seeking support can help mitigate the negative effects of chronic stress.