DEFINITION
Core cortisol refers to the baseline levels of the hormone cortisol that circulate in your body. Cortisol is released by the adrenal glands and plays a role in controlling stress responses, metabolism, and other processes.
EXPLANATION
Your body secretes cortisol in response to both physical and psychological stressors. When stress is chronic, cortisol can remain elevated, leading to negative impacts on health. Therefore, having normal, balanced core cortisol levels is important.
Higher than normal core cortisol is linked to increased abdominal fat storage, blood sugar imbalances, suppressed immune function, and other problems when sustained over time. Factors like poor sleep, burnout, and dietary issues can drive up core cortisol. Stress management and lifestyle changes can help lower chronically elevated levels.
EXAMPLES
Ways to help optimize core cortisol:
- Regular exercise
- Adequate sleep
- Relaxation practices like yoga, meditation
- Balanced nutrition with protein, fats, and low glycemic carbs
- Appropriate rest between workouts
- Stress management techniques
RELATED TERMS
- HPA axis
- Adrenal glands
- Cortisol spikes
- Eustress vs distress
COMMON RELATED QUESTIONS
- What is a normal level of cortisol? Optimal baseline cortisol levels can vary, but abnormal is usually over 20 ug/dL in AM blood tests.
- Does exercise increase cortisol? Yes, but the spikes are brief. Chronic cortisol elevation is what’s unhealthy long-term.
- How can I lower my cortisol levels? Reduce stress, eat a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, and employ stress management techniques.
DO NOT CONFUSE WITH
- Cortisone – a similar steroid hormone used as an anti-inflammatory drug.
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