How does long-term exposure to cortisol affect metabolism?

Long-term exposure to cortisol has a significant impact on metabolism, particularly contributing to the development of insulin resistance. Cortisol, a steroid hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress, plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and metabolism.

When cortisol levels remain elevated over extended periods, it can interfere with the action of insulin, the hormone responsible for facilitating glucose uptake into cells. This interference can lead to a condition known as insulin resistance, where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, resulting in higher blood glucose levels. Over time, this can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

Additionally, chronic exposure to cortisol may influence fat distribution in the body, often leading to an increase in visceral fat, which is associated with metabolic abnormalities. While cortisol has functions that can affect metabolism in various ways, the prominent effect of long-term exposure is the potential for developing insulin resistance, making the option pertaining to this impact the correct answer.