"Stress releases a hormone called cortisol," Erica Patel, MD, of the University of Southern California, told POPSUGAR in a previous interview. "[The release of cortisol] causes high blood sugar levels by promoting the breakdown of protein stores into glucose to be used as fuel. Over time, persistently high levels of cortisol seen in stress promote the storage of excess glucose as fat in the abdomen, causing belly fat."
That means if you are stress eating, you'll likely not just gain weight, but gain it in your lower stomach. Therefore, Ilana said it's a good idea to avoid stress eating in general and find better coping strategies for dealing with stress. When you're anxious, upset, or feeling overwhelmed, try calling a friend, taking a walk or long shower, doing yoga or another workout, meditating, or journaling.