Cortisol 101: All About the Stress Hormone

Cortisol, aka our body’s, “stress hormone,” is something I’ve taken a great interest in as of late- mainly because I’m working with a few clients who are presenting symptoms of higher-than-normal cortisol levels. Similar to my Inflammation 101 post, I thought it would be a good time to take readers through a little bit about cortisol. Guess what? As much as I love my family, our day-to-day can be a bit stressful. So yeah, this post is for ME TOO!

What is Cortisol?

The primary function of cortisol is to help regulate metabolism, control blood sugar levels, and aid in the body’s response to stress. It is involved in the breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates and helps convert them into energy. Cortisol also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to suppress the immune system’s response.

In times of stress, cortisol is released into the bloodstream as part of the body’s fight-or-flight response. It increases blood pressure, heart rate, and blood sugar levels, providing an immediate source of energy to cope with the perceived threat. Once the stressor is removed, cortisol levels decrease, and the body returns to its normal state.

Yet when chronic stress leads to unnaturally high cortisol levels, it creates a state of adrenal imbalance that often triggers a cascade of adrenal-related symptoms:

Fatigue
Low sex drive
Sleeplessness
Weight gain (especially belly fat)
Impaired healing and cell regeneration
Disrupted digestion, mental function (brain fog) and metabolism
Weakened ability to fight infection
Imbalances in other important hormones such as DHEA, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone
Loss of muscle and bone
Mood swings and depression
Hair and skin problems
Thyroid imbalances

Women and Cortisol Levels

Here are some reasons why women [sorry dudes, talking to my friends in perimenopause and menopause at the moment] should pay attention to their cortisol levels:

Hormonal Balance: Cortisol is intricately connected to the hormonal system in the body. Imbalances in cortisol can disrupt the delicate balance of other hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Disruptions in hormonal balance can lead to menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, mood swings, and other hormonal symptoms.
Menstrual Health: Elevated cortisol levels can affect menstrual regularity and the overall functioning of the reproductive system. Chronic stress and high cortisol levels may contribute to irregular or missed periods, painful periods, and difficulties with conception.
Pregnancy and Postpartum Health: Cortisol levels undergo changes during pregnancy and postpartum. Excessive stress and elevated cortisol levels during pregnancy can have implications for fetal development and increase the risk of complications. High cortisol levels can also affect postpartum recovery, mood, and overall well-being.
Menopause: Cortisol imbalances can interact with hormonal changes that occur during menopause. Women experiencing high stress and cortisol dysregulation during menopause may experience more severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
Mental and Emotional Well-being: Cortisol dysregulation can impact women’s mental and emotional health. Elevated cortisol levels and chronic stress are associated with an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Monitoring cortisol levels can help identify potential contributors to mental health issues and guide appropriate interventions.
Bone Health: Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can have negative effects on bone health. Prolonged cortisol elevation may interfere with bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis, particularly in postmenopausal women.
Overall Well-being: Cortisol affects various aspects of health, including energy levels, sleep quality, immune function, and cardiovascular health. It is essential for women to manage cortisol levels to promote overall well-being and reduce the risk of long-term health complications.

If you suspect any issues with your cortisol levels or have concerns about your health, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and order appropriate tests to assess your cortisol levels and provide you with personalized guidance and treatment if necessary. To determine if your cortisol levels are within a healthy range, you would typically need to undergo a cortisol level test. This test measures the amount of cortisol in your blood, saliva, or urine. The specific type of test and the reference ranges may vary depending on the laboratory and healthcare provider.

Hopefully I haven’t scared you into thinking you’re doomed for chronic disease or inflammation. Chances are if you’re reading this you *may or may not be* a little stressed, like me. If anything, I want you to know you are NOT alone, and in the next few days I’ll be sharing natural ways to decrease your cortisol levels, fight fatigue, as well as a 3-day cortisol lowering meal plan.