Weight and stress?

I'm 5'4 and have always maintained a weight range of 118-121.  I've recently jumped up to 126 (following an extended business trip) and no matter what I seem to do, I can get back down to my normal range.  I stick to high protein lower carb lower fat diet.  I've been working out every morning before work and going walking every day after work and instead of losing I'm gaining.  I know that some of it is muscle but I was working out just as much at 118 as I am now at 126, but my diet is just better now then it was then (obviously or I wouldn't have gained the weight)

I have been under extreme amounts of stress at work and my anxiety levels have been really high lately.  Is there a correlation between stress and weight gain?

This exercise and diet routine has worked for me in the past but its not working for me now and stress is the only thing that seems to be different.

Stress plays a part in weight-loss because stress can have physical effects on the body which make it more likely to store than to release fat.  Although some people find stress causes them to lose weight, so it's not a consistent thing.  Having said all that, the biggest determinant for whether you gain or lose weight is 'calories in vs calories out'.   The ratio of carbohydrates to protein don't really make that big a difference.

126 is obviously a very healthy weight for someone 5'4" so a) I wouldn't panic unduly and b) the weight is going to come off incredibly slowly whatever you do.  I expect you'll just have to watch your portions (or count the calories) very, very carefully for a few weeks

I've never been one to lose weight when I've been under stress but my body does have weird reactions to stress (like hair falling out) so hopefully that is all that's preventing me from getting back to where I am comfortable.  I track everything I eat and consume about 1300-1400 calories per day.  I do about 20 min of wieghts in the morning and maybe 10 min of light cardio and then walk 2-4 miles after work.

Women tend to retain water. Also stress can effect your bowel movements. So you may need to evaluate those areas.

If you are drinking enough water, try taking hot baths several times a week as that helps with water retention. Also watch your sodium intake because that cause water retention as well. You'd be surprised at how much sodium normal/everyday foods (not necessarily viewed as bad for you) contain.

If your bowel movements aren't regular, you may need to add more fiber to your diet. Metamucil is good, along with oatmeal and other cereals. Of course with a high fiber diet you definitely need to drink tons of water (usually more than the recommended daily amount)

Actually now that you mention it, I haven't been drinking as much water and my bowel movements haven't been regular so that could be whats happening.  I'm going to try your suggestions.

Thanks!