When we are under stress, our adrenal glands produce hormones. These include the fight-or-flight hormones, epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline), as well as cortisol. Cortisol stimulates fat and carbohydrate metabolism for fast energy (the fight-or-flight response), thereby stimulating insulin release to keep pace with the rising blood sugar levels. This results in an increase of our appetite. If we experience chronic stress, with chronically high levels of cortisol, we many end up hungry all the time, causing us to overeat.

Cortisol also influences where that weight will be deposited. A fascinating study on the effects of the release of cortisol during acute and chronic stress in nonoverweight women was published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine in 2001. The study clearly demonstrated that this excess cortisol contributes to the deposition of visceral fat, particularly in the abdominal region. As we know, there are two types of fat: subcutaneous (under the skin) and visceral (found in the abdomen and surrounding our vital organs).

Central obesity (fat that is centered in the abdomen) sets the stage for a host of health concerns such as heart disease, strokes, and diabetes. Because of its serious threat to health, this has also been referred to as “toxic fat.” Traditionally, women worried about the size of their hips. However, when it comes to overall weight gain, it is preferable to have it on the hips as opposed to the stomach area—if not from an aesthetic point of view, then from a health point of view. Studies indicate that women (and men) who store their weight in the abdominal area have higher cortisol levels and higher stress levels than those whose weight is stored on the hips.

What simple steps can you implement today to try and alleviate some of the stress in your life?