Stress and weight loss—here’s the missing link

Did you know that women with higher stress levels are more likely to gain weight? 

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Stress is also linked to less movement, more fast food, and more time sitting in front of the TV—making weight loss even harder.

The hormone behind this is cortisol.

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When your brain senses stress, it triggers a chain reaction through the:

• Hypothalamus

• Pituitary gland

• Adrenal glands

• (These 3 are called the HPA axis)

This releases cortisol into your bloodstream and keeps releasing it as long as you are stressed.

- Cortisol also increases cravings for sugar, refined carbs, and high‑fat foods!

When it stays elevated, it can also affect the thyroid—key for metabolism.

Women feel this more intensely than men because our hormones shift daily and monthly.

A few ways to lower stress (and cortisol):

• Meditation 

• Time away from technology 

• Being in nature

• Spending time with loved ones

Consistency is what makes these work.

⚡ Ready to stop guessing and actually understand what your hormones are doing?

📘 Read: "In The Flo" by Alisa Vitti. This book shows You how to sync your daily habits with your hormones—so stress drops and weight loss feels more natural.

📘 Read: "WomanCode" by Alisa Vitti (This book changed my life!) This book helps you decode your symptoms and feel more in control of your cravings, energy, and metabolism every day

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*REMINDER: Any information shared by The Optimal Female is not professional advice, always consult a licensed physician before making any changes