Can high cortisol levels cause weight gain around the belly?
1. Introduction Elevated cortisol levels directly contribute to central adiposity, resulting in weight gain specifically concentrated around the abdominal region. Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone synthesized by the adrenal glands, playing a fundamental role in the physiological response to stress. Chronic elevation of this hormone alters energy metabolism, prompting the body to store triglycerides preferentially … Read more