How to Lower Cortisol Levels and Lose Weight

It's possible to lower cortisol levels and lose weight. Stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which signal the body to store fat. High cortisol levels also increase hunger pains. Cortisol is healthy in small amounts; however increased cortisol levels increase appetite, cause weight gain and increase chances for diabetes and depression. There are a few ways to fight back high cortisol levels. Follow the steps below to lower cortisol levels and lose weight.

Instructions

• 1

  Start exercising. Exercise is one of the best ways to lower cortisol levels because it increases the feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin. Regular exercise helps change the body's response to hormones by training it to react more efficiently to increased cortisol levels. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day four to five times a week and you'll be able to lower cortisol levels and lose weight efficiently.

• 2

  Reduce stress to lower cortisol levels and lose weight. Long term exposure to stress affects cortisol levels and health more than short-term stress. Being around that toxic boss, having financial insecurities and having relationship problems over a long period of time will often increase fat storage, reduce immune system function and increase blood sugar. If there is no way to avoid long-term stress, find ways to deal with it like meditation or behavior modification techniques.

• 3

  To lower cortisol levels and lose weight, make sure to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Take daily vitamins and minerals to lower cortisol levels. Rose hip extract has been found to reduce cortisol levels and reduce stress. Find rose hip extract at your nearby neighborhood health food store. Rose hip extract may also help fight the flu and colds.