Struggling with stress-related weight gain? Here’s what you can do

             Written by: Dr Subita Alagh

4 July 2025

Eating right but still gaining weight? You’re not imagining it. Here’s how chronic stress could be sabotaging your progress.

Can Stress Cause Weight Gain?

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Stress isn’t just mental, it affects your metabolism too. Persistent stress slows digestion and alters hormones that control appetite and fat storage.

The Weight of Stress

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Yes, and cortisol is to blame. This stress hormone increases your appetite for high-fat, sugary foods, especially around the belly area.

Is Stress Belly Real?

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More cortisol = decreased digestion = increased insulin resistance+ more fat storage. And if stress is constant, your body never rests leading to weight gain and insulin resistance. 

The Stress-Weight Chain Reaction

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Left unchecked, chronic stress can trigger: 🔹 Obesity 🔹 Anxiety & depression 🔹 Insomnia 🔹 High blood pressure 🔹 Heart disease

How Chronic Stress Affects Health

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Mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises can help calm your mind and reduce emotional eating.

Break the Cycle

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Whether it’s walking, dancing, or swimming, movement helps balance hormones and elevate your mood.

Move Your Body, Lift Your Mood

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Poor sleep increases cortisol and cravings. Aim for 7–9 hours of deep, restful sleep to support healthy weight.

Sleep to Slim Down

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Practice mindful eating, pause before you reach for comfort food and check in with your hunger.

Eat Mindfully, Not Emotionally

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