ABSTRACT
The stress response primes us to escape threats and danger. It also helps us overcome challenges such as taking that first step. We suffer from societal-imposed chronic stresses related to increasing inequality that do not enhance our lives. Americans suffer among the highest stress levels of any nation through displaced aggression inner culture of inequality. The stress response is detailed with gender differences. Significant pregnancy stress affects the unborn fetus in later life. Toxic stress in early life can't be overcome later. Lower status people have more bodily wear and tear from stress. Poorer people have poorer functioning organs. Epigenetic mechanisms can transfer biological status to the next generation. Inflammation is the effector arm of chronic stress. Serious COVID-19 results from hyperactive inflammation. Comfort foods containing large amounts of fats and sugars help control stress with adverse effects later.
