11/07/2024
PSA: cortisol is MORE than just a stress hormone! It impacts nearly every system in the body ⤵
👉 Endocrine System: Cortisol regulates the release of other hormones, including those from the adrenal glands and thyroid. This affects your metabolism, stress response, and energy levels.
👉 Immune System: While cortisol helps suppress inflammation and modulates immune responses, chronic high levels may weaken immune function. This can leave you more susceptible to infections.
👉 Nervous System: Cortisol directly impacts brain function by influencing neurotransmitter levels and promoting neural connections. Yet, too much cortisol can contribute to cognitive decline.
👉 Cardiovascular System: Elevated cortisol levels can lead to higher heart rates and increased blood pressure, raising the risk of hypertension, heart disease, and other cardiovascular conditions.
👉 Digestive System: Cortisol alters gut motility, reduces digestive enzyme production, and impacts your gut microbiome. This combination can lead to bloating, IBS, and nutrient malabsorption.
👉 Musculoskeletal System: Chronic cortisol elevation can result in muscle breakdown and reduced bone density, heightening the risk of osteoporosis and musculoskeletal pain.
👉 Reproductive System: Elevated cortisol disrupts hormonal balance, potentially causing irregular menstrual cycles in women, and reducing libido and fertility in both men and women.
👉 Respiratory System: Cortisol helps manage airway inflammation in conditions like asthma. However, chronic stress may lead to increased respiratory issues and even hyperventilation.
When you learn to balance this hormone, you give your body the chance to thrive in ways that impact EVERY part of you.
Need some help in doing so? Send me a DM to learn more about your options for hormone balance.💌
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538239/