Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, triggering cortisol release to mobilise energy.
In acute stress, this response is protective. However, chronic activation leads to dysregulated cortisol patterns, affecting metabolic stability.
Key effects:
- Increased abdominal fat storage
- Blood glucose instability
- Reduced insulin sensitivity
- Appetite and craving dysregulation
📖 Read more: The 5 Biological Reasons Your Body Stores Fat →