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Cortisol is a hormone produced by cholesterol and belongs to the group of glucocorticoids. It is detached from the adrenal glands after a signal from the pituitary gland.

Cortisol is called a stress hormone and this is by no means accidental – the main factor that stimulates its synthesis is a variety of stresses that can be of different nature – consumption of harmful foods, hard training, trauma, strong emotions, malnutrition, inadequate sleep, illness, pain tests.

Cortisol benefits

When cortisol is at normal levels, it only provides benefits to the body. Its normal secretion is important for several important processes. Reduces sensitivity to pain, increases body resistance, improves memory and ability to concentrate.

High cortisol levels over a long period of time carry a number of negative aspects. Gradually decreases immunity, decreases the secretion of hormones testosterone and somatotropin, suppresses thyroid function, unbalances blood sugar, increases blood pressure, decreases cognitive abilities.

It constantly reduces muscle tissue, increases fat tissue, accelerates cellular aging. High cortisol levels cause ulcers, diabetes and stretch marks, bone density is lowered, which is a major contributing factor to osteoporosis.

High cortisol symptoms

The symptoms of high cortisol are different. A person suffering from a similar problem begins to experience different mood swings: anxiety, depression, and increased irritability. This is due to the fact that cortisol affects the synthesis of dopamine and serotonin.

As it became clear, cortisol synthesis is highest early in the morning when one has to wake up and be refreshed and energetic. People who have a high cortisol level in the morning feel tired and bored at the same time.

Weight increases gradually because cortisol not only stimulates the appetite, but also increases the desire to eat. High levels of the hormone cause [skin dehydration], which in turn leads to premature wrinkles and aging.

High cortisol caused by constant stress can lead to an increase in blood pressure and therefore increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Cortisol research

Cortisol testing is assigned to determine your blood levels. Usually, two blood samples are taken, one in the morning and one in the evening, because the levels are different. This test is generally designed to diagnose problems with the pituitary or adrenal gland.

Before the appointment, you have to prepare. To do this, physical activity is avoided the day before, and half an hour before the sample itself is found. Taking some medications can change the results, so if you are taking a pill, you should inform your doctor about them.

The study should not be done after experiencing physical or mental stress during pregnancy or low blood sugar levels when taking certain medications.

Deviations from the norms may be due to certain diseases and problems. High levels can be due to kidney, liver, obesity, depression, hyperthyroidism. The most common cause is Cushing’s syndrome.

Low cortisol levels can be due to bleeding into any internal organ or Addison’s disease.

Corrosion control

Avoiding persistently high cortisol levels is an important prerequisite for good health. To avoid negative consequences, each person should try to observe several basic rules. First of all, you need to reduce stress as much as possible.

It is the main culprit for high cortisol levels and needs to be adjusted. Full sleep is important, too intense workouts should be replaced by moderate ones. Drastic diets are avoided and food must be of quality and complete. Coffee and energy drinks should be cut down to avoid cigarette smoke.

The daily stress caused by commitments, immobilization, intake of caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes, lack of sleep and imbalance in nutrition must be replaced by exercise, yoga practice and meditation, a complete change in the Lifestyle.

Food and cortisol

As with many other hormones, nutrition is also one of the most important factors in maintaining normal cortisol levels.

To maintain cortisol levels, especially in the case of active trained people, a suitable diet should be developed that includes about 6 meals a day, divided into small portions. Very low calorie intake can increase cortisol levels by up to 40%.

Cortisol increases are the result of eating too much sugar, chocolate, and coffee – foods that are high in fat.

Garlic is one of the most useful foods in terms of cortisol control. This is because it is rich in vitamin C.

You can find more information about anti cortisol foods here: http://vitaminozo.com/anti-cortisol-foods/

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