Complex physiological and hormonal processes link chronic emotional distress, elevated cortisol, and fat storage. How these elements relate:
Reaction to Stress and Cortisol: Stress, sometimes known as the "fight-or-flight" reaction, is triggered by emotional distress.
Cortisol and Fat Storage: Energy and metabolism are regulated by cortisol. It raises blood sugar by breaking down glycogen into glucose.
Cortisol interacts with fat metabolism hormones like insulin, leptin, and ghrelin, which can enhance fat formation.
Hunger & Cravings: Chronic stress and elevated cortisol may affect appetite and diet. Stress might boost appetites for high-calorie, sweet, or fatty foods.
Fat Distribution: Cortisol may affect fat distribution. High cortisol levels, especially chronic stress, increase abdominal and visceral fat.
Feedback Loop: The brain-cortisol feedback loop exists. Chronic stress can affect the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which releases cortisol.
Stress-reduction measures, a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet, and enough sleep are essential for overall well-being and may reduce the effects of stress on cortisol and fat metabolism.
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