Cortisol Hormone is an essential hormone secreted by the adrenal gland. Any imbalance in its levels can lead to disruptions in vital bodily functions it helps regulate.
Read on in this article on evercare to learn more about cortisol, how it works, and its key functions in the body in detail.
What is Cortisol?
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland in response to any perceived threat or danger, commonly referred to as the "stress hormone."
This natural defense mechanism triggers symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, stomach disturbances, dry mouth, and even panic attacks.
Cortisol secretion also suppresses the functioning of sensitive systems in the body, such as those responsible for growth, digestion, and reproduction.
It can also alter the immune system's responses.
Functions of Cortisol in the Body
Hormones play a key role in coordinating the body's essential functions.
For cortisol, its responsibilities include:
- Regulating metabolism:
Cortisol helps the body use energy efficiently by breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins and converting them into energy.
- Sleep cycle regulation:
Proper cortisol secretion helps maintain the body's biological clock, which influences sleep and wake cycles.
Cortisol levels naturally decrease at night and gradually increase during the day.
- Boosting immune function:
High cortisol levels can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections due to its immunosuppressive effects.
- Blood pressure, mood, and stress management:
Cortisol is released during stressful situations, raising blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
This response helps the body cope with and adapt to stress.
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Importance of Cortisol Testing
If there is any disruption in the body functions regulated by cortisol, laboratory tests are conducted to measure its levels and determine if they are too high or too low.
This is particularly important when diagnosing conditions like Addison's disease or Cushing's syndrome, which directly affect the adrenal and pituitary glands.
How is Cortisol Tested?
Cortisol testing can be done using various methods, including:
- Blood tests.
- Saliva tests, which are usually conducted between 11 PM and 12 AM when natural levels are at their lowest. This involves spitting into a test tube.
- Over-the-counter saliva cortisol tests.
- Urine tests.
Preparing for Cortisol Testing
Since cortisol levels are more active during certain hours and decrease at others, doctors typically recommend conducting the test in the morning.
Some people wonder about the preparation required for a cortisol test and whether fasting is necessary.
In reality, this test can often be performed without fasting, particularly if it involves saliva or urine samples.
However, for blood tests, doctors may request fasting, requiring patients to avoid food and drink for 8 hours before the test.
There are specific conditions to follow for accurate results:
- Adhere to the testing schedule prescribed by your doctor.
- Pregnant women may have naturally higher cortisol levels than others.
- Avoid stress and anxiety before the test.
- Certain medications, such as sedatives and diuretics, may affect cortisol test results.
- It’s preferable not to perform the test if you’re suffering from a fever or immune-related illnesses.
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Symptoms of High Cortisol Levels
If test results indicate elevated cortisol levels, the following symptoms may occur:
- Skin changes:
Thinning and weakening of the upper skin layers, often appear as purple stretch marks on the abdomen or arms.
- Metabolic issues and weight gain:
High cortisol can disrupt metabolism, leading to fat accumulation in the shoulders, face, and midsection.
Increased appetite and overeating may also result in significant weight gain.
- Psychological disturbances:
High cortisol levels may cause mood swings, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.
Symptoms of High Cortisol Levels in Women
In addition to the general symptoms, women with high cortisol levels may experience:
- Ovarian dysfunction.
- Increased risk of miscarriage during pregnancy.
- Gestational diabetes.
- Risk of preeclampsia.
- Changes in hair growth patterns.
- Excess facial and neck hair.
- Hair loss in specific areas of the scalp.
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Herbal Remedies for High Cortisol Levels
Normal cortisol levels range between 6 and 23 micrograms per deciliter, depending on the timing of the blood sample (usually taken at 8 AM).
While proper medical treatment is necessary for abnormal results, some believe in using herbal remedies to help manage cortisol levels.
However, this should only complement prescribed treatments.
Effective herbs include:
- Licorice root tea.
- Ashwagandha.
- Korean ginseng.
- Rhodiola rosea.
In general, if you want to check your cortisol levels and ensure they are neither elevated nor deficient, you can contact us to perform the necessary laboratory tests to determine the hormone levels in your body.
You can also consult with a doctor to receive appropriate intravenous vitamins tailored to your health condition through home sessions delivered with top-quality care by a highly skilled medical team.
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FAQs About Cortisol
How can I lower cortisol levels?
Maintain a healthy diet, ensure proper sleep, avoid stimulants like caffeine, and reduce stress and anxiety.
What are the effects of high cortisol levels?
High cortisol increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, weight gain, and memory problems.
How do I know if my cortisol is high?
Signs include acne, thinning skin, and obesity concentrated in specific areas like the upper back and midsection.
Which vitamins lower cortisol?
Vitamins B5, D, and C are known to help reduce cortisol levels.
