BLOG 288 CORTISOL

BLOG 288 CORTISOL

Stress comes in many forms, and it is practically miraculous to live a completely stress-free life. The adrenal glands, which should ring a bell with the term “adrenaline”, release cortisol when stress arises. Therefore, cortisol is known as the “stress hormone”. Situations bring upon this flight-or-flight response usually last for a short period of time. However, ongoing stress with the ongoing release of cortisol, runs the risk of cortisol levels being too high. Higher levels of cortisol are associated with health issues. These can include diseases and for many, weight gain.

Feeling stress can come and go and vary in intensity. Sensitivity to stress and stress management are not a one-size-fits-all experience. What triggers stress for one person versus another has far too many variables. No matter what the case, high cortisol levels for long periods of time are not good. High cortisol is associated with weight gain. Many people can attest to “stress eating” because cortisol does spike appetite. High cortisol signals metabolism to store more fat. The immune system also becomes suppressed with high cortisol. Fighting off even the common cold becomes harder for the body to defend. Fatigue is also an effect of cortisol being too high. Even though energy is lacking, sleeping becomes impaired due to the hormonal imbalance. Chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis, all increase in risk when cortisol levels remain high. There is also a small risk for Cushing syndrome and Addisons disease to develop.

Practicing stress management is important and a behavior that can be challenging to adhere to. Finding what can help can be trial and error and be an ever-changing process. Some good tips can be to incorporate healthy lifestyle choices. These include having good relationships, getting enough sleep, good nutrition, performing exercise, and finding enjoyable activities. For some, these could be taking care of a pet or gardening or reading. Ther are many options. Seeking help with stress management via medical help or spiritual help can be options. Time management, home environment, work environment, and budgeting are factors to try to keep in a positive, balanced, and self-serving place. People, places, and things are always present, and these may not be controllable. Response and reaction are controllable pieces.

Life presents stress and cortisol does get released. Being proactive about keeping cortisol levels at bay and suppressed as much as possible will improve quality of life. When stress strikes, do what you can to settle it quickly. In most cases, the stress response isn’t the problem solver or solution that will help. Cortisol isn’t the body’s friend so keep this hormone away and as far away as possible as much as you can.