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How High Cortisol Makes You Gain Weight - Cortisol And Weight Gain

How High Cortisol Makes You Gain Weight - Cortisol And Weight Gain

Dr. Angela Stengler: Hi, I'm Dr. Angela Stengler, here with Dr. Mark Stengler, and we are back today for our One Minute Clinical Insight segment. Right now we're going to be discussing cortisol and weight gain.

Dr. Stengler: Absolutely. High cortisol is a response to stress, and who doesn't have high stress levels these days? The problem is, when you have high levels of the hormone cortisol over long periods of time, it leads to many problems in the body, including weight gain. There are a couple of reasons. Number one, cortisol causes the deposition of fat in the midsection. Number two, it suppresses your thyroid function, and the thyroid is the main controller of the metabolism in your cells.

Dr. Angela Stengler: Good point. A few of the things we do with our patients: number one, there's an herb called ashwagandha that we use when indicated, as well as the mineral magnesium. And we really try to help people focus on their eating and sleeping schedule — making sure you're having a 12-hour fast between dinner and breakfast, unless your doctor has suggested otherwise, as well as not eating three hours before bedtime.

If you’re eating well and exercising but still struggling with stubborn weight—especially belly fat—stress hormones may be working against you. Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, plays a powerful role in metabolism, blood sugar regulation, and fat storage. When levels stay elevated, weight gain often follows.

In this video, Dr. Mark and Dr. Angela Stengler explain how chronic stress disrupts hormonal balance and signals the body to store fat. They share natural, practical strategies to help lower cortisol, including targeted nutrients like magnesium and ashwagandha, along with lifestyle habits such as improved sleep, balanced meals, and stress management.

If you want a healthier approach to weight management that addresses the root cause—not just calories—this video offers clear guidance to help calm cortisol and support sustainable fat loss naturally.

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