31/01/2026
Understanding Cortisol Belly & How the Lymphatic System Plays a Role
Cortisol is our primary stress hormone, released by the adrenal glands. In short bursts it’s helpful — but when stress becomes chronic, cortisol stays elevated and can significantly affect weight, hormones, digestion, and inflammation.
One of the most common physical signs is central (abdominal) fat storage, often referred to as “cortisol belly.”
Common symptoms include:
• Weight gain or fat storage around the abdomen
• Persistent bloating or fluid retention
• Sugar and carbohydrate cravings
• Fatigue despite adequate sleep
• Poor sleep quality or early waking
• Anxiety, irritability, or feeling constantly “on edge”
Chronic stress also impacts the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing waste, excess fluid, and inflammatory by-products from the body. When the lymphatic system becomes sluggish, the body struggles to detox efficiently, contributing to swelling, inflammation, and hormonal imbalance.
How lymphatic drainage can support cortisol balance:
✔️ Encourages the removal of excess fluid and metabolic waste
✔️ Reduces inflammation and bloating
✔️ Supports gut and liver detox pathways
✔️ Stimulates the parasympathetic (rest & repair) nervous system
✔️ Helps regulate hormonal signalling, including cortisol
By calming the nervous system and improving lymph flow, the body is better able to shift out of survival mode and into healing — which is essential for sustainable weight balance.
Lymphatic drainage is not about quick fixes. It’s about restoring communication between the nervous, hormonal, and immune systems so the body can function as it was designed to.
đź’š Education is the first step toward balance.
