THE IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING CORTISOL

Cortisol, also called the ‘stress hormone’, is nature’s built-in alarm system. It works with certain parts of your brain to control your mood, motivation, and fear.

It is important to understand Cortisol and its effect on your body, in order to keep your hormones in balance and enjoy good health.

Cortisol is one of the steroid hormones made in the adrenal glands, and because most bodily cells have cortisol receptors, it affects various functions in your body. Cortisol helps control blood sugar, regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and assist with memory formulation. It also controls salt and water balance and blood pressure. Cortisol, in expectant mothers, supports the developing foetus. You can imagine how important this hormone is to protect overall health and wellbeing.

Keeping Cortisol in balance is of extreme importance. High Cortisol levels can cause Cushing Syndrome, which leads to weight gain in the face, abdomen, and chest; flushed face, high blood pressure, changes in the skin, osteoporosis and mood swings.

Low Cortisol levels, on the other hand, can cause Primary Adrenal Insufficiency or Addison Disease, causing symptoms like fatigue, muscle loss, weight loss, mood swings and changes in the skin.

When you are in a state of constant stress, your Cortisol levels rise alarmingly and can cause a number of health problems, including anxiety and depression, headaches, heart disease, memory and concentration problems, digestive problems and weight gain.

To keep your Cortisol levels normal and functioning optimally, you need to reduce stress in your life. Eat well, exercise, get sufficient sleep, and follow relaxation techniques that will elevate your mood and keep your Cortisol levels at the normal range.