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News Topical, Digital Desk : Many types of hormones are produced in our body. One of these very important hormones is Cortisol. This hormone is related to our daily life and health. If the level of cortisol remains correct, then it helps in many functions of the body. Such as proper use of energy, keeping immunity strong. This is the reason why it is considered an important hormone for the body.
In such a situation, if the level of cortisol deteriorates, then many types of changes are seen in our body. Therefore, it is very important to have information about it. Today in this article we will tell you what cortisol is and what is the reason behind its high level and how it can be maintained naturally. Let us know in detail -
What is Cortisol?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands located above your kidneys. This hormone helps in many functions of the body and plays an important role in dealing with stress. Cortisol is often called the stress hormone, but its function is not limited to stress only. It affects almost every organ and tissue.
These are the functions of cortisol
- Using glucose (sugar) in the body for energy
- Reduces inflammation
- Controlling blood pressure
- handling a sled cycle
Cortisol and Stress
When you are under stress , whether it is acute, chronic or traumatic, the body releases cortisol. This keeps you alert and triggers the liver to release glucose for energy.
How does cortisol affect the body?
- Stress management: Cortisol is released after fight or flight hormones (such as adrenalin) help you stay alert longer.
- Metabolism and blood sugar- This determines how the body will use glucose for energy. It lowers insulin and increases glucagon.
- Reducing inflammation: It may boost your immunity in the short term, but high cortisol levels over a long period of time can lead to inflammation and a weakened immune system.
- Blood pressure – High cortisol levels can cause high blood pressure, and low levels can cause low blood pressure.
- Sleep cycle- Cortisol is highest in the morning and lowest at night. This controls the sleep cycle.
Why does cortisol become high?
Long term increase in cortisol is called Cushing syndrome. There can be many reasons behind this-
- taking corticosteroid medications (such as prednisone) for a long time
- ACTH-producing tumors of the pituitary gland
- Tumor in the adrenal gland
Symptoms of High Cortisol
- Fat accumulation on face and stomach
- fat accumulation between the shoulders
- Wide, purple stretch marks on the abdomen
- weakness in muscles
- increased blood sugar (can lead to type 2 diabetes)
- High blood pressure
- Excessive hair growth in women (Hirsutism)
- Osteoporosis (weakening of bones and easy fractures)
5 natural ways to maintain cortisol levels
- Exercise for 30 minutes every day. This improves mood and helps in reducing stress.
- A good sleep of seven to eight hours every day is necessary. Keep a fixed time of sleep, avoid screens and caffeine.
- Eat whole grains, fruits, vegetables, protein and healthy fats.
- Dark chocolate, berries and fish rich in omega-3 are beneficial.
- Drink four to five litres of water.
- Practice meditation, yoga, deep breathing. This reduces stress and maintains cortisol levels.
- Laughing, singing, dancing and focusing on hobbies reduces stress and strengthens the immune system.
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