Cross-sectional study with women divided into a group of women with obesity (n=80) and a control group (n=94). Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS program. There were high values of GPX and MDA, and reduced values of SOD in women with obesity compared to the control group. Obese women showed increased concentrations of cortisol in serum and urine, as well as hypozincemia, hyposelenemia and hypomagnesemia and increased urinary excretion of these minerals. There was a negative correlation between the cortisol/cortisone ratio and erythrocyte zinc and selenium concentrations, a signi cant positive correlation between GPx and SOD activity and erythrocyte and plasma concentrations of zinc and selenium. The results of the study suggest the in uence of adiposity on the increase in cortisol concentrations, the role of this hormone in the compartmentalization of the minerals zinc, selenium and magnesium. However, the association study does not allow identifying the impact of such action on the antioxidant defense system and insulin sensitivity.