Dr.Alok Purohit (PhD), Health Coach, Diabetes & Obesity educator

Stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, play a critical role in the body’s response to stress. These hormones are produced by the adrenal gland and are responsible for maintaining a balance of various bodily functions, including blood sugar levels and weight. However, chronic exposure to stress can lead to an imbalance in the levels of these hormones, which can have significant impacts on weight and blood sugar levels.

Cortisol is a primary stress hormone that has a direct impact on blood sugar levels. Cortisol increases the production of glucose in the liver, which is then released into the bloodstream. This is an essential function of cortisol, as it provides the body with a source of energy during stressful situations. However, when cortisol levels remain elevated over an extended period, it can lead to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body becomes less sensitive to insulin. Insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells for energy production. When the body becomes less responsive to insulin, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels. This can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a condition in which the body cannot produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects.

Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is another stress hormone that plays a critical role in regulating the body’s response to stress. Adrenaline is released by the adrenal gland in response to stressful situations, and it increases heart rate, blood pressure, and the release of glucose from the liver into the bloodstream. Like cortisol, adrenaline’s effects are crucial for providing the body with the energy it needs during times of stress. However, chronic exposure to adrenaline can lead to increased blood sugar levels and insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

In addition to the impact on blood sugar levels, stress hormones can also impact weight gain. Cortisol increases the breakdown of muscle tissue and promotes the storage of fat, particularly around the abdomen. This response is a survival mechanism that helps the body access energy stores during times of stress. However, chronic exposure to cortisol can lead to increased abdominal fat, which is associated with an increased risk of developing obesity and its related complications, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Moreover, stress hormones can impact food choices and eating behaviors. During times of stress, people often turn to high-calorie, high-fat foods as a way of coping. This can lead to overeating and weight gain. Additionally, stress can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation, which has been linked to increased appetite, overeating, and weight gain.

Stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, play a critical role in regulating the body’s response to stress, including blood sugar levels and weight. However, chronic exposure to stress can lead to imbalances in stress hormone levels, which can impact weight gain and blood sugar levels. It is important to manage stress through various means, such as exercise, mindfulness, and stress-reducing techniques, to maintain healthy levels of stress hormones and minimize their negative impacts on the body.

References:

1. Chrousos, G. P. (2009). Stress and disorders of the stress system. Nature reviews Endocrinology, 5(7), 374-381.
2. Kyrou, I., Chrousos, G. P., & Tsigos, C. (2006). Stress, visceral obesity, and metabolic complications. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1083(1), 77-110.
3. McEwen, B. S. (2000). The neurobiology of stress: from serendipity to clinical relevance. Brain research, 886(1-2), 172-189.