The doctor dispelled the myth about the connection of the "cortisol belly" with stress

The term "cortisol belly" is firmly established in social media. Bloggers and fitness experts promise to remove it with detoxification, special nutrition and breathing exercises. Ekaterina Kashukh, a gastroenterologist and expert at the Hemotest Laboratory, told Izvestia on June 4 whether excess cortisol really changes the figure and whether diets will help get back in shape in this case.

Cortisol is a hormone of the adrenal cortex that is produced in response to stress. His task is to mobilize all the resources so that the body can withstand a difficult situation.

"Cortisol increases blood glucose levels, stimulates vasoconstriction and makes the heart beat faster. In the short term, it is necessary for survival. Problems begin when cortisol levels remain high for a long time. Normally, the level of this hormone varies throughout the day: high in the morning, low in the evening. At the same time, cortisol is not directly related to obesity in any way — this is a myth," the doctor explained.

The real excess of cortisol, according to the doctor, is not manifested by weight gain due to stress, but by the development of hypercorticism, a serious disease with a characteristic clinical picture. The specialist explained that one of the most typical signs is a specific type of obesity: the face becomes rounded, the volume of the abdomen, shoulders and chest increases, while the arms and legs remain relatively thin.

The condition of the skin also changes — it becomes thinner and becomes dry, and purple stretch marks appear on the abdomen, thighs and chest. In addition, muscle weakness develops, which makes it difficult for a person to climb stairs or stand up unsupported.

Among other symptoms, the doctor named poorly treatable hypertension, osteoporosis with an increased risk of fractures, reproductive disorders, decreased libido, as well as anxiety, irritability, depression and sleep problems.

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The expert also noted that the popular concept of "cortisol belly" has no medical justification. According to her, obesity is not associated with any one hormone, but develops against a background of disorders in the work of various hormonal systems, including insulin and thyroid hormones. However, lifestyle factors remain the most common cause of weight gain: excess of simple carbohydrates in the diet, alcohol consumption, chronic lack of sleep and lack of physical activity. Therefore, before suspecting yourself of having rare endocrine diseases, your doctor recommends paying attention to your sleep patterns and nutrition.

The specialist emphasized that there is no special "anti-cortisol diet." Regardless of the stress level, the body needs a full and balanced diet. As a practical guideline, the doctor advised using the Harvard Plate principle: half of the diet should be vegetables and fruits, a quarter should be whole grains, and another quarter should be protein sources. This approach helps to maintain a balance of nutrients without strict restrictions and constant calorie counting.

Speaking about ways to deal with stress, the doctor named healthy sleep as one of the key factors. Kashukh explained that normally cortisol levels decrease in the evening, reach minimum values at night and begin to rise in the morning, helping the body to wake up. With regular lack of sleep or late bedtime, this rhythm is disrupted: the hormone remains elevated at night, which worsens the quality of sleep and leads to fatigue even after prolonged rest. Additionally, the specialist recommends maintaining a reasonable level of physical activity and, if necessary, seeking help from a psychotherapist who will help you learn how to cope with emotional overloads.

Nutritionist Irina Pisareva told on May 13 how to lose weight at home. According to her, a personalized approach to nutrition and health is still inaccessible to many Russians due to the high cost of tests, but you can start taking care of your health without expensive research. The specialist advised to give up semi-finished products and fast food, choose whole foods more often, monitor the balance of protein and fiber in the diet, eat more slowly and chew food thoroughly.