Cortisol, a stress hormone, is crucial for well-being, yet many face imbalanced levels. While high cortisol aided our ancestors in emergencies, today’s non-life-threatening situations often trigger excessive elevation, leading to chronic stress and constant fight-or-flight mode.
Elevated cortisol links to inflammation, causing weight gain, anxiety, depression, fatigue, diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s and lupus. It accelerates aging and contributes to osteoporosis. Excessive cortisol can also lead to adrenal fatigue due to depleted glands.
Transitioning from stress to calm involves techniques like breathing exercises, meditation, and Qi Gong. Mild exercise is recommended; intense activities like HIIT can actually raise cortisol. Medications like birth control impact cortisol, as do inhaled steroids. Also key is a balanced diet and considering adaptogenic supplements to lower cortisol and promote relaxation.
Get into balance again. Consult your functional medicine MD today to optimize your well-being.
