Stress Hormone Cortisol Linked To Weight Gain, Long Working Hours: Study

A growing body of research suggests that stress and long working hours may be doing more than just exhausting people, they could also be contributing to weight gain. Scientists say cortisol, often called the “stress hormone”, plays a major role in how the body stores fat, controls appetite, and manages energy. High cortisol levels over long periods may increase cravings, slow weight loss, and raise obesity risk, especially among people dealing with chronic stress and demanding work schedules.