Cortisol Fast FactsCortisol is the primary steroid hormone produced by the cortex (outer portion) of the adrenal gland. This hormone belongs to a class of a steroids called ‘corticosteroids’ and is crucial for normal metabolism of carbohydrates and appropriate stress response. It is secreted as part of the ‘fight-or-flight’ stress reaction. What are the known benefits of cortisol? This hormone stimulates the appetite, raises energy levels, improves digestion, eases joint/muscle/tendon pain, eases inflammation & allergies and enhances the immune system. It helps to combat the effects of jet lag and can ease general anxiety and depression. What are the problems associated with too much? Too much of this hormone, as the result of an extended stress response, can be disruptive and damaging to various bodily systems. Examples would be depressed thyroid activity, lowered immune function, elevated blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels. What about too little? An extremely low amount of circulating cortisol will manifest as Addison's Disease . This is a very serious disorder, requiring immediate and continuing medical intervention. A person who is nowhere near the levels of Addison’s disease, however, can still experience health issues related to the deficiency of this steroid hormone. Two prominent symptoms of a deficit are low blood pressure and low tolerance to stress. Women may experience hair loss on their head, while having increases of unwanted hair on other parts of the body, such as the chin, upper lip and breasts. It is believed that the lack of cortisol triggers increased secretion of male hormones, in an attempt by the body to compensate. Both men and women with insufficient levels may have inflammations throughout their bodies, such as rheumatoid arthritis and carpal tunnel. Persons with low cortisol levels may not tolerate or absorb medications well. Low dose supplementation may calm inflammations of the digestive tract, enhancing intestinal absorption of amino acids and nutrients. |