This is because stress is responsible for an increase in the levels of the hormone cortisol that are found in the body. That, in turn, causes fat to be stored in the abdomen. Another factor that contributes to persistent abdominal obesity is a propensity that is inherited from one's parents. It has been noticed that if both of your parents have stomach fat, there is a strong possibility that you will inherit their body. That is especially true if both of your parents have abdominal fat and are overweight.