India, Dec. 19 -- Stress has inadvertently become an integral part of our lives, whether at the workplace with looming deadlines or due to FOMO (fear of missing out) while doomscrolling. Cortisol is one of the primary hormones responsible for putting the body into a constant state of alertness, also called the 'fight or flight response.'

But cortisol levels for a prolonged period are not healthy and can negatively affect your health. Cortisol is beneficial only in short bursts, helping you take immediate action during stressful situations by boosting energy levels and sharpening focus. When cortisol remains high for a long time, you gain belly fat. The accumulation of fat around the abdominal area is called a cortisol belly.

This is not...