Can cortisol be the reason I’m gaining weight?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Yes, cortisol can cause weight gain. Known as the "stress hormone," cortisol is released by your adrenal glands during periods of stress. When cortisol levels stay elevated, it can increase appetite, trigger cravings for high-calorie foods, and promote fat storage—particularly around the abdomen. Chronic stress, poor sleep, and certain medical conditions like Cushing's syndrome can keep cortisol levels high, making weight management more difficult.

If you suspect cortisol or another underlying issue may be affecting your weight, understanding the root cause is the first step toward feeling better. Symptoms like unexplained weight gain, fatigue, or mood changes can stem from many different conditions, and guessing isn't a strategy. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights based on your health profile and clearer guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if cortisol is causing weight gain Discover if your symptoms need care today Find likely causes of stubborn weight gain Explore OTC options for weight-related symptoms Find doctors for hormone-related weight gain See evidence-based home remedies for weight gain Understand if it could be Cushing’s syndrome

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Explanation

Cortisol is a hormone that your body releases when you are stressed. According to the research, when you have too much stress for a long time, your body can make more cortisol. This extra cortisol can cause your body to store more fat, especially around your belly.

Here are a few key points:

Stress and Cortisol: When you are stressed, your body makes more cortisol. This is a natural response, but too much cortisol over time can lead to problems.
Fat Storage: The extra cortisol can tell your body to store more fat, especially in the belly area. This can make you gain weight.
Long-term Effects: If you are stressed for a long time, the effects of cortisol can add up and make it harder to keep a healthy weight.

If you are worried about stress and weight gain, it might be helpful to talk to someone who can help, like a doctor or a counselor. You can also check your symptoms to better understand what might be causing your concerns and get personalized health information.

(References)

Hewagalamulage SD, Lee TK, Clarke IJ, & Henry BA. (2016). Stress, cortisol, and obesity: a role for .... Domestic animal endocrinology, 27345309.
Moyer AE, Rodin J, Grilo CM, Cummings N, Larson LM, & Rebuffé-Scrive M. (1994). Stress-induced cortisol response and fat distribution in .... Obesity research, 16353426.
Roberts CJ, Campbell IC, & Troop N. (2014). Increases in weight during chronic stress are partially .... European eating disorders review : the journal of the Eating Disorders Association, 24123563.

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