The Link Between Cortisol and Weight Gain

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Chronic stress and weight gain are closely tied to cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Released by the adrenal glands in response to physical or psychological stress, cortisol initiates a series of metabolic changes meant to deliver quick energy in emergencies. While this response is useful in short bursts, today’s constant stressors—such as demanding work schedules, lack of sleep, and emotional strain—keep cortisol levels chronically elevated. Over time, this creates the ideal conditions for weight gain and metabolic imbalances.

The connection between phosphatidylserine and weight loss becomes especially important when examining how cortisol promotes fat storage. Under prolonged stress, cortisol can:

Increase appetite and cravings: By stimulating neuropeptide Y production in the hypothalamus, cortisol drives strong cravings for calorie-dense foods, particularly those high in sugar and fat—a survival mechanism that backfires in today’s food-rich environment.

Promote abdominal fat storage: Cortisol activates lipoprotein lipase in abdominal fat cells, redirecting fat accumulation to the belly area. This explains why many people under chronic stress develop central obesity, even without significant overall weight gain.

Disrupt glucose metabolism: By stimulating liver glucose production and impairing insulin receptor signaling, cortisol interferes with blood sugar control. This state, often referred to as “cortisol-induced metabolic syndrome,” increases the risk of prediabetes and other metabolic disorders.

By addressing cortisol’s role in these mechanisms, phosphatidylserine may offer a targeted, physiological approach to reducing stress-related weight gain.

This biochemical disruption highlights why phosphatidylserine is such a valuable tool in weight loss strategies. Research on phosphatidylserine and cortisol-related weight management has shown:

A 27% reduction in cortisol levels during mental stress tests

Lower post-stress food intake, with reductions of 300–400 kcal per day

Notable decreases in waist-to-hip ratio over a 12-week period

The key advantage of phosphatidylserine in fat loss lies in targeting the root cause of stress-related weight gain. By competitively binding to cortisol receptors, PS helps restore metabolic balance and counteract the effects of chronic stress. Unlike stimulant-based weight loss products that often overlook underlying physiological factors, phosphatidylserine addresses the neuroendocrine drivers of weight gain, providing a more sustainable solution for today’s stress-prone population.