We know that long-term stress affects abdominal fat. This link is generally attributed to chronic stress's complicated physiological and hormonal responses. Some key pathways explain how long-term stress can cause belly fat:
Cortisol Release: Chronic stress triggers the "fight or flight" response, releasing cortisol. Long-term high cortisol levels can cause abdominal fat buildup. Cortisol mobilizes energy stores and encourages fat accumulation for future energy demands.
Insulin Resistance: Chronically high cortisol levels can cause insulin resistance. Insulin controls blood sugar and fat storage. Cells that resist insulin may accumulate extra fat, especially in the abdomen.
Stress Can Increase appetites for High-Calorie Foods: Stress can cause appetites for sugary, fatty comfort foods. Stress-induced eating of certain foods might cause belly weight gain.
Research suggests that persistent stress may favor visceral fat growth around internal organs. Visceral fat is metabolically active and associated to cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance.
Lifestyle factors: Stress might indirectly cause belly obesity by affecting lifestyle choices.
This intricate association between stress and belly obesity varies by person. Stress response is also affected by genetics, gender, and health.
Stress management through relaxation, regular exercise, and healthy coping mechanisms can improve mental health and weight distribution.
follow for more updates