Cortisol And Weight Gain Supplements To Reduce Cortisol And Belly Fat

Introduction

Continuous exposure to stressful situations can result in elevated cortisol levels in the body.

Natural methods to manage or decrease cortisol levels include relaxation techniques, dietary modifications, quitting smoking, and taking supplements.

When a person experiences stress, their adrenal glands produce the hormone cortisol. In brief episodes, this hormone can assist individuals in coping with stressors or threats. However, prolonged high cortisol levels can be detrimental.

For many individuals, directly reducing cortisol involves minimizing stress levels. The body may create less cortisol if stress is reduced.

In some instances, elevated cortisol may stem from an underlying medical issue or a side effect of medication. Consulting a physician can guide management strategies.

This article explores practical ways to lower cortisol levels to ensure the body effectively manages stress.

Diagnosis

Cortisol levels can be assessed through tests using blood, urine, saliva, or hair samples. Typically, cortisol levels peak upon waking, although they can fluctuate due to various influencing factors such as:

• Circadian rhythm (the sleep-wake cycle)
• Exercise and physical activity
• Diet and eating habits
• Smoking
• Stress

Determining the cause of high cortisol levels revealed in test results requires diagnosis. Subsequent steps may include imaging studies to check for endocrine tumors or other potential causes.

How does having an excess of cortisol feel?

Your body releases the hormone cortisol in reaction to stress. It plays a critical role in responding to dangerous or life-threatening situations but has multiple functions within your body. Cortisol affects the immune system, inflammation, and metabolism.

In modern society, many individuals experience elevated cortisol levels more frequently than is ideal. Persistent high cortisol can lead to both immediate and long-term health concerns. Supplements, lifestyle modifications, and diet can all help reduce elevated cortisol levels.

The body’s main stress hormone is called cortisol. It participates in several physiological functions, such as:

• Regulating blood sugar levels
• Controlling the body’s sleep-wake cycles
• Managing carbohydrate, fat, and protein utilization
• Reducing inflammation
• Regulating blood pressure

The body increases cortisol production as part of its “fight, flight, or freeze” response, enabling adaptation to potential threats.

Elevated cortisol levels place the body in a state of heightened alertness. Individuals may feel anxious or tense, which can hinder concentration and disrupt sleep.

At times, cortisol levels may rise abnormally due to chronic stress or an underlying medical condition. Certain medications can also raise this hormone’s levels.

Cushing’s syndrome is one medical disorder that can result in increased cortisol levels. However, daily life stressors can also increase cortisol levels, with significant health implications.

“The body releases cortisol and glucose simultaneously. This is part of our natural fight-or-flight response, providing the energy (glucose) necessary to flee or confront a threat,” explained Kaitlyn Seguin, a registered dietitian at Family Nutrition Solutions.

However, this response can become harmful over time. Weight gain may result from elevated cortisol and glucose levels. This, combined with other dietary and lifestyle factors, may contribute to diabetes.

What health conditions can high cortisol levels cause?

Moderate to high cortisol levels can lead to a variety of health issues, including:

• Chronic diseases: Sustained increased cortisol may elevate the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and other chronic conditions.
• Weight gain: Cortisol can boost appetite and prompt the body to alter metabolism to promote fat storage.
• Fatigue and sleep disturbances: High cortisol may interfere with sleep hormones, affecting both sleep quality and duration.
• Concentration issues: Elevated levels can cause “brain fog,” or difficulties in focusing and maintaining mental clarity.
• Weakened immune system: Increased cortisol levels may hinder the immune system’s ability to combat infections.
• Cushing syndrome: Extremely high cortisol levels can, in rare instances, lead to Cushing syndrome, a severe and uncommon disorder.
• Lack of energy: Elevated cortisol can result in feelings of fatigue.

Sustained high cortisol levels can contribute to:

• Diminished sex drive
• Irregular menstrual cycles in women
• Absence of menstruation in women
• Mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression
• Compromised immune function
• Cushing’s syndrome
• High blood pressure
• Facial flushing
• Fatty accumulation between the shoulder blades
• Muscle weakness
• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Mood fluctuations
• Gaining weight, especially around the face and abdomen
• Osteoporosis
• Simple bruises or purple skin stretch marks
• Excess body hair in females
• Type 2 diabetes

Cortisol And Weight Gain Supplements To Reduce Cortisol And Belly Fat

Magnesium

The notion of a vicious loop between magnesium and stress is supported by a 2020 review that was published in the journal Nutrients.

Many typical indicators of stress are also signs of magnesium deficiency, including tiredness, difficulty sleeping, upset stomach, anxiety, irritability, and headaches. Research indicates that stress can reduce the body’s levels of this vital nutrient, and low magnesium may heighten the body’s sensitivity to stress. According to some studies, increasing magnesium through supplements can alleviate stress-related symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, and poor sleep, as well as lower cortisol levels.

If these symptoms resonate with your everyday experience, you might not be surprised to hear that “many individuals in the U.S. have a slight magnesium deficiency.

If you’re considering a supplement for potentially improving your body’s response to stress and cortisol levels, McQueen recommends magnesium as a solid option. Over-the-counter magnesium at the advised dosage is considered safe and may provide additional benefits.

Magnesium from dietary sources or supplements could aid in the prevention of conditions like diabetes, migraine headaches, and osteoporosis, and it might contribute to lower blood pressure as well.

Taking a sensible dose via a supplement could yield positive effects, and we understand it’s safe at those dosages.

Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid

The healthy fats found in seafood and soybeans, among other sources, might influence biological stress markers, including cortisol.

Participants with high cortisol levels also had low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids, according to a 2018 study that involved 2,724 middle-aged participants and was published in Psychoneuroendocrinology. Some studies suggest that individuals with this stress indicator may see improvements in cortisol levels and other stress markers when taking omega-3 supplements.

Omega-3 is a well-recognized supplement that is generally safe and could offer additional advantages.

These supplements can have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help counteract some adverse effects of raised cortisol levels. They may also enhance blood circulation and improve your lipid profile.

However, before trying these supplements, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) cautions that evidence is mixed regarding whether increased omega-3 intake could raise prostate cancer risk.

Individuals on medications that affect blood clotting or those with known allergies to fish or shellfish should consult their doctor before using this supplement.

Vitamin C

A research analysis from 2017 published in the JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports concluded that sustained high doses of vitamin C reduced blood pressure spikes and anxiety in response to stress among women. This does not imply that it wouldn’t benefit men; the study simply excluded them.

As a recognized antioxidant, vitamin C may offer additional health advantages. However, caution is necessary, as excessive vitamin C intake can pose real risks, particularly for specific groups like postmenopausal women with diabetes and those susceptible to kidney stones. The maximum recommended limit for all adults is 2,000 mg per day.

Ashwagandha

This green shrub, native to India, Africa, and the Middle East, has been utilized as a medicinal plant for thousands of years. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen—a plant or mushroom that aids the body’s reaction to stress, anxiety, or fatigue.

Some clinical studies indicate that this evergreen plant may help alleviate stress and insomnia.

If you have a supplement that enables you to sleep better, that’s a strategy for managing stress, which will naturally lead to a decrease in cortisol levels.

However, according to the NIH, there is limited evidence supporting Ashwagandha’s role in addressing anxiety.

It is important to note that most scientific inquiries into medicinal plants face a similar challenge—typically small sample sizes—and research regarding this plant is no exception. Nonetheless, it shows promise in assisting individuals with anxiety and stress. As a result, it could potentially lower cortisol levels.

Regarding safety, there hasn’t been extensive research on individuals consuming ashwagandha beyond three months, so potential long-term effects remain uncertain. It is advised against taking it if you are pregnant, nursing, about to undergo surgery, or have autoimmune or thyroid conditions. It also interacts with several medications, so consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this supplement if you are on prescriptions.

L-theanine

Green tea contains the amino acid L-theanine. It exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety properties. A study conducted in 2016 indicated a reduction in cortisol levels (assessed through saliva) just three hours after consuming a drink containing L-theanine.

Additionally, research suggests that L-theanine can alleviate stress and help maintain normal sleep patterns. Getting enough sleep is essential for managing stress and maintaining good physical and mental health.

Whether you choose to drink green tea or use another form of L-theanine supplement, incorporating it into your regimen might be beneficial.

Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola rosea is another form of adaptogen. It may be found in North America, Europe, and Asia, among other places.

Numerous individuals use it to enhance their immune response and decrease inflammation. However, a recent review evaluated the efficacy of Rhodiola in managing stress. This review revealed that it reduced cortisol levels, increased energy, and improved fertility.

Thus, rhodiola may offer advantages beyond merely lowering cortisol levels. Yet, similar to many adaptogens, further research will enhance experts’ understanding of how it assists in stress management.

Ginseng

Ginseng is a herb that can be found in both Asia and the United States. It contains antioxidants called ginsenosides.

Ginsenosides may aid in supporting the immune system, repairing organ damage, and managing ongoing inflammation.

Currently, there is limited research specifically focused on the relationship between cortisol and ginseng. Nonetheless, positive correlations have been noted between ginseng supplementation and stress management. Given the close connection between stress and cortisol, ginseng could potentially influence cortisol levels as well.

Natural approaches to diminish cortisol

In most cases, cortisol levels can be independently controlled by the brain and adrenal glands. Once the stress subsides, the body ceases cortisol production, and levels typically normalize.

Nevertheless, individuals experiencing chronic stress, certain medical issues, or those on specific medications may have elevated cortisol levels. They might consider implementing some techniques to reduce cortisol, such as:

Ensure adequate sleep

Focusing on sleep could help in lowering cortisol levels. Persistent sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, or irregular shift work are linked to increased cortisol production.

Insomnia refers to difficulties in sleeping and can stem from various factors, including stress and obstructive sleep apnea. This can elevate circulating cortisol levels, influencing hormone patterns, energy levels, and other health aspects.

Shift workers may encounter unfavorable health outcomes, including:

• obesity
• heart disease
• type 2 diabetes
• deteriorated mental health

If you work night shifts or rotating shifts, you might not have full control over your sleep routine, but there are ways to enhance sleep quality:

• Establish a bedtime routine: Creating a consistent nightly routine (e.g., shower, read a book) can help signal your brain and body to wind down.
• Keep consistent sleep times: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is one of the most effective methods to enhance sleep.
• Exercise earlier in the day: Regular exercise can improve sleep quality but should occur at least 2-3 hours before going to bed.
• Reduce caffeine consumption: It’s best to avoid caffeine-containing foods and beverages approximately six hours before sleep.
• Avoid alcohol and nicotine since they can both impact the length and quality of your sleep.
• Minimize bright light exposure at night: Around 45-60 minutes before sleep, try to limit bright and blue light exposure. Instead of using your phone in bed, consider reading a book or listening to a podcast.
• Sleep in a quiet environment: Use white noise, and earplugs, and silence your phone to minimize disturbances.
• Enjoy naps: If your shift work cuts down on sleep time, napping can help alleviate sleepiness and prevent deficits. However, napping may negatively impact sleep quality for non-shift workers, especially if done within seven hours of bedtime.

Reducing stress

Stress often triggers cortisol production, so managing stress can subsequently lower cortisol levels for many individuals. Those looking to decrease their cortisol levels can consider:

• Prioritizing tasks: To minimize stress, individuals can work on avoiding stressors when possible. This involves assessing what in life causes stress and determining if it’s avoidable. For stressors that can be avoided, consider whether they are truly a priority. Anything non-essential may be eliminated.
• Managing stress: This refers to learning how to effectively handle unavoidable stress. Techniques such as mindfulness and self-help strategies can be beneficial.
• Seeking mental health support: If stress arises from a mental health condition like anxiety, professional treatment may help diminish it. Speaking with a therapist can assist in identifying anxious thoughts and gradually replacing them with more balanced perspectives.

Discover more about strategies for stress reduction.

Practicing relaxation techniques

Individuals dealing with stress may benefit from utilizing relaxation techniques. These practices trigger the “relaxation response” rather than the stress response, enabling the body to halt the production of stress hormones.

Some methods to consider include:

• breathing exercises
• guided meditation
• walking meditation
• yoga or tai chi
• visualization
• Discover more about five relaxation techniques to explore.

Engage in regular physical activity.

Physical activity can either elevate or reduce cortisol levels based on the intensity of the exercise.

High-intensity workouts lead to an immediate rise in cortisol but result in a decrease a few hours later.

This temporary increase aids the body’s growth in meeting challenges.

likewise the strength of the cortisol reaction decreases with regular workouts.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease (NIDDK), regular physical activity can lower the risk of chronic illnesses, reduce stress, and enhance overall health, potentially decreasing cortisol over time.

Consistent exercise may enhance resilience to short-term stress and decrease negative health impacts related to stress, such as elevated cortisol levels.

However, excessive exercise can have the opposite effect. Aim for approximately 150–200 minutes of primarily low- to moderate-intensity exercise weekly, and ensure you allow time for recovery between sessions.

Consuming a well-rounded diet

Individuals aiming to lower their cortisol levels should consume a well-rounded diet, with particular attention to sugar and caffeine intake.

A 2021 article indicates that the following may help reduce stress levels, thereby aiding in the stabilization of cortisol:

Fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, lentils, seeds, & whole grains are all sources of dietary fiber.
Omega-3 fatty acids: One should consider eating more fish and seafood. Plant-based alternatives include flax seeds, chia seeds, algae, and sea vegetables.
Aged, fermented, and cultured foods: Include options like plain yogurt, kefir, kombucha, miso, tempeh, and apple cider vinegar.
According to a 2019 study, eating more carbohydrates may result in reduced cortisol levels.

Learn more about maintaining a balanced diet.

Steering clear of caffeine

Individuals looking to reduce their cortisol levels should refrain from consuming food and drinks with caffeine in the evening, as caffeine can disrupt restful sleep.

Recognizing thoughts that cause stress is essential.

Incorporating a mindfulness practice into your daily life may aid in stress management and decrease cortisol levels.

Mindfulness-based stress reduction involves becoming more aware of thoughts that trigger stress, accepting them without judgment or resistance, and allowing yourself to work through them.

By training yourself to notice your thoughts, breathing, heart rate, and other signals of tension, you can identify stress as it begins.

Focusing on your mental and physical state allows you to observe your stressful thoughts impartially without passing judgment.

Identifying stressful thoughts enables you to develop a conscious and intentional response to them. For instance, a study involving 52 older adults with type 2 diabetes who participated in a mindfulness program found that such training led to improvements in anxiety, stress, depression, and cortisol levels after the program ended.

Another study indicates that consistently practicing mindfulness can reduce cortisol levels in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder.

A bad night’s sleep or protracted periods of sleep loss might alter cortisol levels in the blood.

Obtaining sufficient sleep and maintaining a regular sleep-wake cycle may help lower cortisol levels.

Longer and higher-quality sleep can be attained with a regular nighttime regimen.

This may include various relaxing activities to help a person unwind, such as:

• Taking a bath or shower
• Doing some stretching
• Reading a book or hearing a book on audio
• Journaling
• Practicing meditation
• Establishing the habit of turning off screens and relaxing before sleeping is beneficial. For example, turning off phones and other possible distractions may be helpful.

Engaging in laughter can promote endorphin release and decrease stress hormones like cortisol. It is also associated with improvements in mood, reduced stress and perception of pain, lower blood pressure, and enhanced immune function.

Both genuine and simulated laughter can contribute to lower stress levels.

For instance, laughter yoga—a form of yoga that encourages intentional laughter—may help:

Lower cortisol levels
Reduce stress
Enhance mood
Boost perceived energy levels
Additionally, engaging in hobbies can improve emotions of well-being, which may result in lower cortisol levels.

• Gardening
• Listening to music
• Dancing

Hobbies may help people unwind and feel satisfied while providing a focus and a distraction from worries.

For example, a study on treatments for substance misuse involving older veterans found that gardening reduced cortisol levels and seemed to improve quality of life more effectively than traditional occupational therapy.

Other hobbies that relieve stress can comprise:

• Drawing or painting
• Crafting
• Cooking
• Creative writing
• Playing a musical instrument

Engaging in enjoyable activities makes it challenging to feel stressed, so allocating time for fun can also lower cortisol levels.

Laughter offers numerous therapeutic advantages. It can aid in reducing cortisol levels and increasing serotonin, which plays a role in mood regulation. Additionally, it may enhance social connections.

Maintain healthy relationships

Supportive connections can lead to reduced cortisol levels, as indicated by a 2017 review of research.

In couples, disputes cause a temporary rise in cortisol, which is followed by a return to baseline levels.

A 2016 study examining conflict styles in 88 couples found that practicing nonjudgmental mindfulness resulted in a quicker normalization of cortisol levels after disagreements.

Consequently, showing compassion and empathy toward your partner—and receiving the same in return—may help better regulate your cortisol levels.

Having support from loved ones can also aid in lowering cortisol during stressful situations.

For instance, an older study demonstrated that affectionate interactions (either verbal or physical) with a romantic partner or a platonic friend before facing a stressful task led to lower stress-related indicators like blood pressure and heart rate.

Eat a nutritious diet.

Although all foods can be enjoyed occasionally, being aware of your dietary choices may alleviate stress symptoms and help you manage cortisol levels more effectively.

Consistently consuming high amounts of added sugar may lead to increased cortisol levels. Interestingly, a diet rich in sugar can also hinder cortisol release during stress, complicating your body’s ability to cope with stress.

One study found that a diet abundant in added sugars, refined grains, and saturated fats resulted in significantly higher cortisol levels compared to a diet laden with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and polyunsaturated fats.

Research indicates a strong connection between a healthy gut microbiome—comprising the microorganisms in your gut—and enhanced mental health. Therefore, eating foods that promote a healthy gut may help lessen stress and anxiety and boost overall well-being.

Other foods that assist in managing cortisol include:

• Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which might reduce stress responses in the adrenal glands, leading to decreased cortisol release.
• Whole grains: Unlike refined grains, whole grains are abundant in plant-based polyphenols and fiber, potentially supporting stress management and gut health.
• Whole fruits and vegetables: Whole fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants and polyphenolic compounds, which combat cell-damaging free radicals and may contribute to lowering cortisol levels.
• Legumes and lentils: High in fiber, they promote gut health while stabilizing blood sugar levels.
• Green tea: Green tea contains catechins, other polyphenols, and a soothing compound known as L-theanine, which is associated with reduced stress and enhanced mental alertness.
• Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria found in foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Prebiotics, such as soluble fiber, serve as nourishment for these bacteria. Both probiotics and prebiotics are associated with improved mental and gut health.
• Healthy fats: A diet rich in unsaturated and low in saturated fats correlates with better overall health and mental well-being. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are best linked with brain health and lower stress. Nuts, seeds, and especially fatty fish are good sources.
• Water: Dehydration can temporarily elevate cortisol levels, making it crucial to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.

Exercising

Engaging in physical activity benefits health and can lift a person’s mood. However, vigorous exercise may lead to increased cortisol levels, as it serves as a coping mechanism for the additional stress imposed by the workout.

Therefore, low- or moderate-impact exercise could be a suitable choice for individuals with elevated cortisol levels. The optimal type and amount of exercise depend on one’s specific conditions, so it is wise to consult a doctor regarding this.

Building good relationships

Stable and loving relationships with partners, friends, and family are essential for leading a happy and fulfilling life and assisting individuals during stressful times.

On the other hand, if relationships are fraught with unhappiness and unhealthiness, they can contribute significantly to stress. When conflicts arise frequently, it may benefit everyone involved to address and resolve the underlying issues.

Getting a pet

Certain research suggests that owning a pet may reduce cortisol levels.

One study measured cortisol levels in 101 children undergoing stress tests. The kids participated along with a caregiver and their pet dogs. The researchers assigned them to a waiting area with either their dog, their parent, or nobody present.

The children then completed school-like assessments in a different room and provided saliva samples.

The findings indicated that the presence of a dog significantly helped reduce the rise in perceived stress among children compared to those who were alone or with a parent.

Stopping smoking

According to some studies, smoking may have an impact on both cortisol levels and the quality of sleep.

A study conducted in 2019 revealed that smokers had higher cortisol levels than non-smokers. They also exhibited lower sleep continuity, meaning they experienced more frequent awakenings.

Taking supplements

Numerous lifestyle modifications can help lower cortisol levels. However, if these changes are not feasible or ineffective, the next step may involve consulting a doctor about supplements.

A small study from 2019 found that Omega-3 fatty acids decreased cortisol levels among nurses facing burnout. The participants took Omega-3 for 8 weeks and reported enhancements in emotional exhaustion.

Another double-blind study from 2019 found that the herb ashwagandha lowered cortisol, especially in the mornings.

It is essential to understand that researchers are still uncovering how ashwagandha functions. It seems to also influence serotonin and GABA levels similarly to antidepressants. Additionally, there is a risk of withdrawal if someone discontinues its use.

Currently, scientists know that ashwagandha is not suitable for individuals with:

• an autoimmune disorder
• a thyroid issue
• hormone-sensitive prostate cancer
• It may also interact with medications that alter blood glucose, blood pressure, or thyroid levels and is not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Individuals should always consult a healthcare professional before trying new supplements, especially if they are already on medication.

Other natural methods to lower cortisol levels

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) can serve as an effective approach to lower cortisol. CAM includes various unique practices such as:

• Yoga
• Meditation
• Tai chi
• Massage
• Chiropractic care
• Reiki
• Acupuncture

A study of several research conducted in 2021 discovered a positive correlation between meditation and decreased cortisol levels. Additional research has also indicated that yoga can be effective in reducing cortisol.

Simply taking a walk can help decrease your cortisol levels. Research indicates that walking in natural environments is particularly beneficial for regulating cortisol. However, any walk is a positive step for your health, no matter where it takes place.

Engaging in physical activity can enhance both your mental and physical well-being in various ways. Over time, these practices may collectively aid in regulating cortisol levels.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

If you experience signs of elevated cortisol levels, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider. High cortisol levels can increase the risk of health problems such as:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Blood clots in the legs and lungs
• Infections
• Bone density loss and fractures
• Mood changes or depression
• Untreated conditions like Cushing’s syndrome can be life-threatening. If you have additional concerns, such as managing stress, seek help from a healthcare professional. Addressing stress management may require medical intervention.

Summary

Cortisol belly occurs when elevated cortisol levels lead to an increase in abdominal fat. Cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone, assists your body in managing numerous essential functions. Chronic stress, certain medications (like steroids), and various co-existing health issues can cause cortisol belly.

The main focus of treatment is to lower cortisol levels. Since high cortisol levels can increase the risk of additional health complications, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider promptly if you observe any signs or symptoms.

Cortisol is a hormone released during stressful situations. While it plays a key role in responding to physical and emotional stressors, persistently high cortisol levels can negatively impact health.

In addition to consulting a healthcare professional, adopting healthier lifestyle habits can aid in naturally lowering cortisol levels.

If you seek a natural method to decrease your cortisol levels and stress overall, consider the straightforward lifestyle tips mentioned above.

Excess cortisol in the bloodstream can harm health, especially if elevated levels persist over time. Often, the most effective way to reduce it is by addressing factors that trigger its production. For many individuals, this involves minimizing stress.

By implementing simple lifestyle adjustments to calm the nervous system and lessen stress exposure, individuals may experience an enhancement in their well-being.

Individuals should consult a doctor when high cortisol is associated with an underlying issue or medication or does not improve with lifestyle changes.

FAQs

References

• Supplements That Can Naturally Lower Cortisol Levels – GoodRx https:/www.goodrx.com/well-being/supplements-herbs/reduce-cortisol
• 11 Natural Ways to Lower Cortisol Levels. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ways-to-lower-cortisol
• 13 effective supplement ways to lower your cortisol levels. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322335
• Cortisol Belly and How to Get Rid of It. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-cortisol-weight-loss-controversy-3233036