Did you know your everyday habits might silently spike your stress hormone — cortisol — and slow down your metabolism?

According to endocrinologists, small lifestyle choices can disrupt your hormonal balance and push your body into chronic stress mode. When cortisol stays elevated, it leads to weight gain, insulin resistance, poor sleep, fatigue, and even diseases like PCOS and fatty liver.

Here are 10 daily habits you must watch out for:

1. Irregular sleep – Less or broken sleep increases cortisol.

2. Lack of exercise – A sedentary life boosts belly fat and stress.

3. Too much caffeine – Especially at night, worsens sleep and stress.

4. Skipping meals – Makes your body panic, increasing insulin and fat storage.

5. Junk cravings – Sugary or salty foods elevate cortisol.

6. Excess screen time – Affects posture, eyes, and mental health.

7. No mindfulness – Skipping meditation or deep breathing makes stress worse.

8. Ignoring stress signs – Leads to burnout and metabolic slowdown.

9. Skipping health checkups – Delays early diagnosis.

10. Unhealthy diet – Low fibre and processed food wreck metabolism.

To regain control, focus on sleep, balanced meals, light workouts, and stress management. Your hormones (and waistline) will thank you.