Cortisol is a steroid hormone, which is also called stress hormone. Associating the word stress with this hormone often creates a bad image of it. Whereas in reality our body needs this hormone.

In a state of stress, cortisol increases the availability of blood glucose and fatty acids, so that they can be used as energy. But when this cortisol is unbalanced, the body starts giving its signals. In such a situation, it is important that the signs of deficiency of this hormone in the body can be understood in time. Let us know the signs of lack of cortisol in the body-

• Craving for more sweet and salty foods
• Even after working out and dieting, the puffiness on the face and belly fat does not go away
• Digestive system problems like bloating, indigestion, gas, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) etc.
• Problems in sleeping, not falling asleep quickly, interruptions in sleep
• Always feeling tired despite getting enough sleep
• Feeling of anxiety, irritability.
• Brain Fog
• Migraine

How to overcome cortisol deficiency?

To overcome this deficiency of cortisol in the body, it is necessary to change your lifestyle. For this, you can include some foods in your diet-

vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential for adrenal functioning. It also positively affects cortisol production, especially during stress. Adding oranges, bell peppers, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, Brussels sprouts to the diet helps balance cortisol imbalance.

Vitamin B (especially B5, B6, B12)

B5 promotes the production of adrenal hormones. Whereas, B6 and B12 are helpful in energy production and response to stress. Vitamin B5 can be obtained from mushrooms, sweet potatoes, avocado, lentils etc., Vitamin B6 can be obtained from chickpeas, salmon, potatoes and bananas etc. and Vitamin B12 deficiency can be fulfilled by liver, yeast, fortified plant-based milk etc.

Magnesium

It is also called relaxation mineral. It calms the nervous system and balances cortisol levels.

Potassium

It balances sodium levels, controls blood pressure, and keeps the nervous system calm during stress.