How Does Cortisol Affect Abdominal Fat?
Cortisol is a hormone produced in response to stressful situations. Not only that, but cortisol is important for the body to control energy and metabolism levels. Cortisol is responsible for using fat stores in the body for energy when needed. This hormone also uses protein and carbohydrates in the most efficient way your body needs.
Cortisol has health benefits in short term situations but can be harmful when experienced in the long term. People who have elevated levels of cortisone due to long-term stress may experience adverse health effects such as bone loss, muscle loss and accumulation of fat in the abdomen.
Cortisol redistributes fat in the body to the area in the abdomen surrounding the organs. This fat is harder to get rid of when dieting as it is. Any added stress can increase fat levels in the abdomen.
According to a study by Laval University, abdominal tissue contains more fat cell concentration, greater blood flow and is more receptive to cortisol. This makes it easier for fat to accumulate in this area due to increased cortisol stress levels.
A study published in Science Daily showed that even women who were thin may develop excessive abdominal fat due to extended stressful situations. Increased pressure by societal norms for women to be thin may cause more stress for these women which can increase abdominal fat, back and forth in a vicious cycle.
Cortisol may even increase appetite and cravings for sugary snacks which can lead to weight gain and additional fat, which will most likely build up in the abdomen. In the alternative, extreme dieting can also increase cortisol production causing a greater accumulation of abdominal fat.
Reducing stress, getting enough sleep, exercising and eating a healthy, balanced diet can help with weight loss and loss of fat, even in the abdomen. For more on cortisol and body fat, you can read my other articles on the topic from the further reading list below.
FURTHER READING:
Cutting Calories Can Increase Stress Hormone Cortisol in Women
SOURCES:
Drapeau V., et al.; Is visceral obesity a physiological adaptation to stress?; PubMed
Kelly D. Brownell, PhD, et al.; Stress May Cause Excess Abdominal Fat in Otherwise Slender Women, Study Conducted at Yale Shows; Science Daily
Published by Jolynne M Hudnell
Jolynne is a part-time freelance writer and independently-published poet. Jolynne has knowledge and experience in a variety of topics. Jolynne enjoys singing and writing poetry. Her published work in... View profile
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