The Hidden Hurdle to Weight Loss: How Women Can Br...

The Hidden Hurdle to Weight Loss: How Women Can Break Free from the Cortisol Trap

Rudo Mandiro- Zim Now Reporter

For many women, the journey to weight loss often feels like an uphill battle. Despite dedicated efforts in the gym and careful attention to diet, the numbers on the scale can stubbornly refuse to move.

But what if the real obstacle isn’t found in the kitchen or on the treadmill, but in a tiny hormone called cortisol?

Hormone wellness coach and founder of Perfect Symphony, Tatenda Makayi, sheds light on how cortisol could be the hidden culprit sabotaging women’s weight loss efforts.

“Cortisol, often dubbed the stress hormone, plays a crucial role in our body’s response to stress. However, when cortisol levels remain chronically elevated, it can wreak havoc on metabolism—leading to weight gain, particularly around the midsection,” Makayi explained.

She noted that the impact of cortisol on women is particularly significant. “Women naturally tend to store more fat around the abdomen, and we are also more prone to stress and anxiety. This combination often drives cortisol levels even higher, creating a vicious cycle that's hard to break.”

Makayi highlighted that prolonged high cortisol levels not only affect weight but can also lead to other health issues such as mood swings, increased anxiety, skin problems like acne and thinning skin, high blood pressure, and even a heightened risk of heart disease.

Fortunately, she emphasized that there are practical strategies women can adopt to manage cortisol levels and reclaim control over their health and weight.

“These strategies include incorporating stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. Regular physical activity, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake are also crucial in keeping cortisol in check,” she advised.

By understanding the role of cortisol and making intentional lifestyle changes, Makayi believes women can overcome this hidden hurdle.

“It’s time to take control of our hormones and our health,” she said. “By creating a supportive community and prioritizing our well-being, women can break free from the cortisol trap and achieve their full potential.”