If you’ve ever been told that cortisol is the reason you’re gaining weight — or can’t seem to lose it — you’re not alone. This hormone often gets the blame, especially in menopause, when many women notice shifts in their body composition. But is cortisol really stopping you from losing weight?

Menopause is a natural phase of life as we know, but its symptoms can be distressing, often bringing up feelings of shame, anxiety, and...