Cortisol is a hormone (i.e. glucocorticoid) released in response to stress. Chronic stress can influence:
 • Blood sugar regulation
 • Insulin sensitivity
 • Appetite
 • Where fat is stored

 Abdominal fat tissue is more responsive to cortisol than other areas, which is why prolonged stress is associated with central fat gain in some women. But that’s not the full story.

The Nuance

Midsection changes, especially in your 40s+, are rarely just about cortisol.

They’re also influenced by:
 • Declining oestrogen
 • Loss of muscle mass
 • Poor sleep
 • Reduced protein intake
 • Less resistance training

Your metabolism is an ecosystem. Cortisol is one piece not the villain.

What actually helps

Instead of trying to “lower cortisol,” focus on:

✅ Lift weights → protect muscle & improve insulin sensitivity
✅ Eat adequate protein → preserve lean mass
✅ Stabilise blood sugar → regular meals, fibre, protein
✅ Protect sleep → reduces stress signalling
✅ Build stress capacity → movement, boundaries, recovery

It’s never about hacking one hormone but about supporting your metabolism systemically.