Why Stress Is Making You “Fat”—And How to Fix It

"Why am I putting on weight, even though I'm not eating any differently?"

A woman recently told me this—and I hear it all the time. 

She was getting "fat" for no apparent reason.

She was frustrated and confused. 

After some digging, we found that stress was a huge factor in her weight gain.

It might be your story too. 

Even if you don’t realize it.

Why?

When you're stressed, your body releases a hormone called cortisol. 

This hormone is designed to help you manage short bursts of stress, like an emergency. 

But when stress is chronic, cortisol levels stay elevated—and that can trigger your body to hold on to fat, especially around your belly.

When you’re burned out, you’re in a constant state of stress. 

When you're constantly overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or just "too tired" to care, food becomes a coping mechanism. 

You might reach for comfort foods, snacks, or sweets to numb the feelings of stress or exhaustion. 

Normally, GLP-1 helps regulate your appetite and supports your metabolism. 

But under high stress, these hormones get out of balance.

It can make you crave junk food or eat when you’re not really hungry.

Instead of feeling satisfied after a meal, you may find yourself feeling constantly hungry—leading to overeating, cravings, and even weight gain.

So, how can you get ahead of this?

First, identify the stressors in your life—and start reducing them. Second, consider your health from a holistic perspective. 

If stress is making it harder to manage your weight, it's essential to address the root causes while exploring effective solutions

Talking to your doctor can open the door to a variety of strategies tailored to your needs. 

One such option is GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of medications that can help regulate hunger by mimicking the effects of a natural hormone involved in appetite control and blood sugar regulation.

These medications not only support weight loss but also improve overall metabolic health.

Your doctor might also suggest other ways to manage stress and stay healthy, like exercising, eating balanced meals, and learning ways to relax. 

By working together, you can find the best plan to help you feel better and manage your weight.

In 2025, let's prioritize YOU. 

Your health, your joy, your well-being.

If you're ready to tackle stress and take control of your weight, I'm here to help.

Rooting for you,
Dr. Beckford

Whenever you’re ready, here are two ways I can help you:

1. Coaching: Join the waitlist for 1:1 coaching program designed to I help high-achieving women escape burnout and feel in control of their time, energy, and life in 12 weeks
2. Book a consultation: If you’re ready to lose unwanted weight for 2025 without the drama (Texas residents only).