Cortisol, Stress And Mood Disorders

Cortisol is a critical hormone that helps to maintain blood pressure, blood sugar through insulin stimulation, provide energy and stimulate the metabolism for fast energy.  It is also a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland.  It is produced in excess as a response to stress, its primary function being to increase blood sugar, suppress the immune system and aid in fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism.

Because production of cortisol increases during levels of stress, it is often called the “stress hormone.” This disruption of cortisol secretion may cause weight gain and even impact where that weight is stored.  Some studies have suggested that stress and elevated cortisol levels tend to cause excess fat to build up in the abdominal area rather than the hips and thighs.  Abdominal fat is often referred to as “toxic fat” since this has been linked to the development of heart disease and stroke. Anxiety can also affect metabolism whether or not cortisol is ever involved.

Some great ways to de-stress are to take a nice warm bath, increase physical activity, which increase endorphin production, yoga, and meditation. You might even watch your favorite movie. Women are the worst at reducing stress because they don’t take time for themselves. It can be hard with all they have to do, but it is necessary. Scheduling the time might be the only way to achieve this.

The single best thing a person can do if they are under stress, struggling with weight, or possibly have raised levels of cortisol is to balance their diet, get an adequate amount of exercise, and sleep.  The Amino Diet protocol can help with all of these issues. Following this protocol not only helps reduce stress and improve mental health but it also increases the metabolism and burns fat, especially in the midsection.

For people who already have a healthy diet and engage in regular physical activity, they may consider taking an adrenal boosting supplement like our Stress Less. Developed specifically to help your body respond to stress and regulate the cortisol levels in your body. Have questions? Call us at 800-980-7208.