Cortisol

Cortisol is a hormone that is frequently discussed in terms of stress hormones. Cortisol is a steroid hormone, made in the body from cholesterol.

Cortisol is a product of the HPA-axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), which is part of the body’s main stress response system. Cortisol is produced in the adrenal glands—small glands that sit on top of the kidneys. 

Cortisol follows a daily rhythm where it is highest in the morning and then declines throughout the day, reaching its lowest point around bedtime. 

FUNCTIONS OF CORTISOL

• Anti-inflammatory (making it important for the immune system)

• Impacts mental health (esp. cognition and mood)

• Maintains bone density

• Plays a role in metabolism

• Raises blood sugar (to be used as fuel in a “fight or flight” response)

• Regulates blood pressure

• Supports a healthy sleep/wake cycle

In case it isn’t clear, cortisol impacts all body systems.

What causes both high cortisol levels and cortisol dys-regulation? STRESS.

At the extreme level of high cortisol is Cushing’s disease where cortisol and other adrenal hormones are excessively produced. Signs of high cortisol include: Weight gain in the belly, weight gain in the upper back, rounding of the face, stretch marks, weak skin, and weak bones.

On the other end is Addison’s disease, which is adrenal insufficiency. Signs of low cortisol include: Fatigue, weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, and abdominal pain.

Where to start addressing cortisol imbalance? 

I suggest using supplements to support the immune system as well as lifestyle tools to correct any HPA-axis dysfunction and provide adrenal support. Need 1:1 support to get your HPA axis back in balance and cortisol levels regulated? Book a Discovery Call!