Cortisol

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland that plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's physiological and metabolic functions. It is commonly known as the "stress hormone" due to its association with the body's response to stress. While cortisol is essential for normal body function, excessive or prolonged cortisol secretion can have negative effects on health.

In our functional medicine office in Denver, Colorado, we recommend various strategies to maintain cortisol at healthy levels. In healthy individuals, cortisol levels fluctuate throughout the day, with the highest levels occurring in the morning and the lowest levels in the evening. This diurnal variation helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle and maintain normal bodily functions. However, chronic stress can disrupt this natural rhythm, leading to an overproduction of cortisol and an increased risk of health problems.

One of the most well-known effects of cortisol on health is its impact on the immune system. High levels of cortisol can suppress immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Studies have also linked elevated cortisol levels with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.

In addition to its effects on the immune system, cortisol can also affect mental health. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels have been linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. This may be due to cortisol's impact on the brain and its ability to regulate mood and emotion.

Cortisol can also impact metabolism, particularly in relation to weight gain and obesity. High cortisol levels have been linked to an increased appetite, leading to overeating and weight gain. Additionally, cortisol can stimulate the breakdown of muscle tissue, leading to a decrease in lean muscle mass and an increase in body fat.

Another important role of cortisol is its involvement in the body's stress response. During times of stress, cortisol is released to increase blood sugar levels, enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, and suppress non-essential functions such as digestion and reproductive processes. However, chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can lead to long-term damage to the body, including increased inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction. 

Over time elevated cortisol can lead to decreased cortisol levels known as the “exhaustion phase” of the stress response. This can manifest as fatigue or low energy and mood dysregulation. One way that functional medicine doctors assess diurnal patterns of cortisol production is using a four or six point salivary cortisol testing protocol. For example, the DUTCH cortisol awakening response test is a good option. This type of cortisol testing can help your holistic provider to design an appropriate treatment plan. 

There are several ways to manage cortisol levels and promote healthy cortisol function. One of the most effective ways is through stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and exercise. Adequate sleep and a healthy diet can also help regulate cortisol levels. Searching for a functional medicine doctor near me on google or another search engine can also set you on a path to finding personalized recommendations to maintain healthy cortisol function.

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage cortisol levels, particularly in individuals with conditions such as Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease. However, these medications must be carefully monitored and managed to prevent negative side effects. Your Tendwell holistic health care provider can help.

In conclusion, cortisol plays a crucial role in maintaining normal bodily functions, but excessive or prolonged cortisol secretion can have negative effects on health. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels have been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases, mental health disorders, and metabolic dysfunction. Managing cortisol levels through stress management techniques, sleep, and diet can help promote healthy cortisol function and prevent negative health outcomes.

For more information, visit this article on the Institute for Functional Medicine’s webpage.