How Does Cortisol Work?

Cortisol - A Stress Hormone

Cortisol, a hormone naturally secreted by the adrenal cortex, functions primarily to regulate and control our body's intrinsic reaction to stress. Commonly known as "the stress hormone," cortisol triggers an immunological response in the body that heightens its ability to endure stressful situations. In other words, cortisol, also called hydrocortisone, prepares our bodies for the typical "fight or flight" reactions when we encounter stressful situations. However, the body may produce cortisol for reasons unrelated to stress.

The Necessary Function of Cortisol

Our bodies necessitate the production of cortisol for sustainability, to promote normal healthy cellular and organ functioning. It serves a profound purpose in the stability of our lives. Thus, cortisol remains essential for survival. Without it we inevitably die. For example, cortisol catalyzes glucose metabolism, stabilizes blood pressure, maintains normal blood sugar levels and serves as an inflammatory response. Healthy cortisol levels tend to facilitate a quick burst of energy for survival reasons, ameliorate memory capability, bolster immune function, reduce pain sensitivity and precipitate homeostasis in the body.

The Dangers of Excess Cortisol Production

While we require a certain level of cortisol, excessive amounts may pose negative consequences. Unfortunately, our arduous contemporary lifestyle, generally characterized by the constant stress of fulfilling responsibilities, exercises an overwhelmingly detrimental effect on the human body. Consequently, this stressful lifestyle often triggers dangerously high cortisol levels in our bloodstream, which thereby undermines personal health. Why? When superfluous amounts of cortisol saturate the bloodstream, free radicals, virulent blood-borne disseminating agents, infiltrate our bodies, exploiting it as a host, instigating cellular oxidation. When cellular oxidation occurs, these pathogens attack various organs and tissues, deteriorating their functions, thereby predisposing them to substantial physical degradation, including muscular pain, weakness, obesity, severe mental fatigue, diminished intellectual capacity, etc. Some negative side effects of high cortisol levels may include impaired cognitive function, suppressed thyroid function, blood sugar imbalances, decreased bone density, a decrease in muscle tissue and elevated blood pressure. Additionally, since chronic stress tends to escalate our bodies into high gear given its connection with extreme cortisol production, these damaging effects may last for days or weeks, oscillating periodically between intervals, like the cyclical pattern of a rotating fan. Therefore, finding a positive outlet for stress proves vital to long-term health.

Resources

• Merriam-Webster Medical Dictionary
• Hidden Training - PSA.pdf
• Your High Blood Pressure Questions Answered - Stress and High Blood Pressure