Adrenal Fact! Adrenal glands produce hormones that help the body control blood sugar, burn protein and fat, react to stressors like a major illness or injury, and regulate blood pressure. Two of the most important adrenal hormones are cortisol and aldosterone. Constant adrenal stimulation, through excessive stress, poor diet and sleeping habits can lead to a decrease in their function and a pervasive fatigue, permeating all system functions. CORTISOL AND WEIGHT GAIN How is cortisol related to weight gain? If you are under stress for any reason (even excessive exercise is stress), your adrenals will pump out cortisol. The cortisol will convert fat cells to sugar for the blood stream.