Stress and Weight Gain: The Overlooked Connection

Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” but still aren’t seeing the results you
want when it comes to weight loss or your overall health?

Maybe you’re eating well, staying active, and getting enough sleep, but the scale just
won’t budge—or worse, it’s creeping up. And weird gut symptoms or fatigue just won't leave you alone. 

Here’s something many people overlook: stress.

Stress isn’t just an emotional experience; it has a profound impact on your body and can
sabotage even the best health efforts. Let’s unpack why this happens and what you can do about
it.

The Stress-Weight Connection:

When you’re stressed, your body releases a hormone called cortisol. While cortisol is helpful in
small doses (like during a workout), chronic stress keeps cortisol levels elevated. This can lead
to:

• Increased fat storage, especially around the midsection
• Cravings for high-sugar, high-fat “comfort foods”
• Slowed metabolism as your body tries to conserve energy
• Altered gut health integrity, including gut lining and microbiome

In fact, studies show that chronic stress can make weight loss up to 50% harder by disrupting
your hormones and energy balance (Journal of Obesity).

You don’t need to eliminate stress completely (because, let’s face it, life happens). But
you can learn to manage it in healthier ways:

1. Prioritise Sleep: Lack of sleep raises cortisol and increases cravings. Aim for 7–9 hours
   of quality rest per night.
2. Move Your Body: Exercise is a natural stress reliever. Even a brisk walk or yoga session
   can help lower cortisol levels.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can help calm your
   mind and regulate stress hormones.
4. Eat to Support Your Body: Focus on whole foods rich in magnesium, B vitamins, and
   omega-3s, which help combat stress.
5. Set Boundaries: Say no to things that drain you and yes to activities that recharge you.

Stress can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools, you can take control and see real
progress. And you don’t have to do it alone! 

As part of my 12 Week Nutrition/Mindset/Movement program, we help our clients to reduce the negative impact that stress can have on our bodies. it's usually not just one thing that you change that creates an impact, which is why my program is multi-dimensional and helps reduce the cortisol load with many small changes that make a hugely positive impact, over time, when done consistently. 

Your body and mind deserve to thrive, and I’m here to help you get there.
With care and support,

Andrea x