According to David Robson at Bodybuilder.com, "Cortisol is termed catabolic as it has the opposite effect to testosterone, insulin and growth hormone in that it breaks down tissue." If you

are noticing a decline in the amount of muscle tissue you have, you might be producing too much cortisol. You might need to dial back your workouts and find ways

to reduce the amount of stress in your life. Walking and meditative practices like yoga could be very helpful.

Cortisol causes weight gain in the face, on your back, and in your trunk and belly. It is critical to take steps that reduce cortisol production as carrying extra fat

in these areas may cause serious health problems. 

Cortisol impairs your body's ability to synthesize collagen, therefore blood vessels burst more easily. Stretch marks can form in many areas of the body and are often slow to heal

as long as collagen levels are high.

Tension in the body is formed as a result of exposure to stress. If you are experiencing back pain, headaches, tightness and discomfort in your limbs, and gastrointestinal distress, you

are also producing cortisol. Address these symptoms with yoga, meditation, and consuming foods that ease digestive issues.

Stress has a way of making you tense and so mentally preoccupied that you cannot get good quality sleep. Again, your body is likely producing high amounts of cortisol in

response to the discord in your life. Your cortisol levels are at their lowest when you are asleep, so the effect of not sleeping is yet more cortisol

production. Practicing some relaxation techniques could go a long way in solving this problem. 

Low libido is usually an indicator that you are overwhelmed and stress can certainly reduce your desire to be amorous. When there is a pressing issue in front of you, it

gets your full focus and attention. It is time to take a break from worry and practice some self-care. Pamper yourself, take a walk, grab a movie, or do something

creative--whatever recharges your batteries. 

Fatty, salty, and sweet snacks provide an immediate rush of euphoria and satiety. It is not unusual that when you are under high amounts of stress and pressure that you

would crave foods that bring you comfort. The bad news is that these cravings are an indicator of high cortisol levels. And if you give into these cravings, you will

gain weight and adversely affect your health giving you yet another thing to worry about.