Cortisol, the “stress hormone,” may sound like a nasty little thing, but in reality it is necessary for almost all functions of the body, so much so that deficiencies or excesses can lead to a variety of physical symptoms. But what exactly is cortisol and how does it affect you, especially in regard to your weight?

Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, the small glands next to the kidneys, during times of stress. The secretion is controlled by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus of the brain. In times of great stress, the secretion of cortisol increases, which puts glucose, protein and fat into the bloodstream, which in turn increases the body’s energy level in response to the threat. The cortisol levels will return to normal when the stress declines. When the cortisol levels don’t decline, the problems start. Cortisol is implicated in heart disease, diabetes, depression, lower immunity and weight gain.

How does cortisol influence weight gain? It stimulates fat and carbohydrate metabolism to give the body a burst of energy and stimulates the release of insulin and the maintenance of the blood sugar levels. This causes an increase in appetite, which leads to eating, which leads to weight gain. This excess weight usually shows up in the abdominal area. It’s this fat deposition that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. But before you go out and buy something to reduce your cortisol levels, beware of the health problems that can result from too little or too much cortisol.

When the body produces too much cortisol, it is called Cushing’s Syndrome. With Cushing’s Syndrome, the body develops mass loss in the muscles and legs and added weight in the abdomen. The bones and skin are thinned and can be easily damaged. Symptoms of too much cortisol include:

• Rounded face
• Increase in abdomen size
• Increase of fat on upper back
• Increase in acne
• Thin and weak upper arm and leg muscles
• Thinning of the skin
• High blood pressure
• Severe fatigue
• Pink or purple stretch marks and easy bruising
• Weak muscles
• Depression, anxiety and irritability
• Scalp hair loss in women
• Excess facial hair and irregular menstrual cycles in women

There are other things that can cause elevated cortisol levels. Women who are in their third trimester of pregnancy can develop higher levels, as can highly trained athletes. Certain drugs can also increase cortisol levels such as spirolactone (a diuretic) and estrogen hormone therapy. People who suffer from depression, anxiety, panic disorders, malnutrition, alcohol abuse or who drink two to three cups of coffee a day can have high levels.

When the body produces too little cortisol it is called Addison’s Disease. With Addison’s Disease, the body develops digestive problems and experiences weakness and weight loss. Symptoms of too little cortisol include:

• Weak muscles
• Chronic, worsening fatigue
• Appetite and weight loss
• Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
• Low blood pressure that gets worse while standing, which could lead to fainting or dizziness
• Depression and irritability
• Hyperpigmentation-skin changes or dark tanning that covers exposed and unexposed body parts, most visible on areas where the skin folds, such as the knees, elbows, toes and lips

The chances of developing these diseases are slim and not everyone gains weight from having excess cortisol. Cortisol is not solely responsible for weight gain. It’s a reaction to other factors. The amount of cortisol secreted in times of stress varies from person to person. Stay on the side of caution and don’t fall for the quick fixes or medication that may have adverse effects.