Sat, 02 May 2026 16:06:45 +0000

Your Belly Swells from Cortisol—But This Hidden Trigger Can Shock You Ever wake up with a noticeable swell in your belly, even after a whole night’s sleep? While common culprits like eating too much salt or constipation often get the blame, many overlook a more subtle but powerful driver: cortisol. The stress hormone tied closely to chronic pressure, cortisol can quietly reshape your midsection in ways you might never expect. ### What Is Cortisol and Why Does It Cause Belly Swelling? Cortisol is your body’s primary stress hormone, released by the adrenal glands whenever you face physical or emotional stress. While short-term cortisol spikes help you respond to dangers, chronic elevation—triggered by ongoing stress, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, or unresolved anxiety—can wreak havoc on your digestive system and metabolism.