It's possible to lower cortisol levels and lose weight. Stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which signal the body to store fat. High cortisol levels also increase hunger pains. Cortisol is healthy in small amounts; however, according to doctors, increased cortisol levels increase appetite, cause weight gain, and increase chances for diabetes and depression. There are a few ways to fight back high cortisol levels. Read the following tips to lower cortisol levels and lose weight.