High cortisol levels are associated with weight gain due to several physiological mechanisms. Andrew Huberman explains that elevated cortisol can lead to increased appetite and cravings, especially for high-calorie and sugary foods, which can contribute to overeating 1. Additionally, cortisol plays a role in fat storage, particularly in abdominal fat, which is linked to various health risks.
Cortisol also influences metabolism by enhancing the storage of fat and carbohydrates, leading to weight gain over time. Chronic high cortisol levels are often related to stress, which further exacerbates the cycle of weight gain due to emotional eating and metabolic changes.
To summarize, high cortisol contributes to weight gain through increased appetite, changes in fat distribution, and enhanced fat storage mechanisms in the body.
