Cortisol in Babies

Cortisol is a complex hormone. Dr. Sears, an Associate Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of California, found that high levels of cortisol in babies hurts them later in life. Comforting crying babies, breastfeeding and gving multi-sensory stimulation lowers cortisol levels.

Identification

Cortisol is one of several steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex. Cortisol is often called a stress hormone.

Features

When babies are separated from their parents for lengthy periods of time, their bodies and brains are overwhelmed with adrenaline and cortisol. "These imbalances inhibit the development of nerve tissue in the brain, suppress growth, and depress the immune system" says Dr. Sears.

Significance

Parenting Science reports that "Babies with the healthiest stress response systems have parents who are sensitive and responsive."

Potential

"Experiences during infancy have the strongest and most persistent effect on adult hormone regulation, stress responses and behavior," according to Linda Folden Palmer, D.C.

Warning

Dr. Sears also emphasizes that babies who are left to cry and experience elevated cortisol levels do not develop healthy intellectual and social skills.

Considerations

Research by Dr. Sears shows that infants with prolonged crying in the first three months of life "had an average IQ 9 points lower at 5 years of age," possibly due to high cortisol levels.

References

• Dr. Sears, Pediatrician
• Parenting Science
• Linda Folden Palmer, D.C.