Cortisol is a steroid hormone released by a body’s adrenal glands.
It is commonly referred to as a stress hormone.
This involves the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the adrenal gland.
Anthony Tran
There is also a chance of developing adrenal fatigue.
This takes place if long-term exposure to stress leads to lower cortisol levels.
That is why its so important to keep the hormone in balance.
Otherwise, it could have severe consequences.
Exercise every single day.
Moderate and low-intensity exercise is capable of lowering cortisol.
Of course, exercising will have additional benefits as well.
However, high-intensity exercise can actually cause excess cortisol, which is why its important to exercise in moderation.
Pushing the body too far is never beneficial.
Get a good nights sleep.
Although insomnia can be a symptom of high cortisol, it can alsocausehigh cortisol.
That is why its important to set aside enough time to rest each night.
However, its also important to get goodqualitysleep.
Naps are also an excellent way to get a boost of energy throughout the daywhile also preventinghighcortisollevels.
This is possible through deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or Tai Chi.
Aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, music therapy, and art therapy are also options.
Even something as simple as booking a massage at a spa can be beneficial.
Overall, anything that gives the body a chance to relax and unwind will help lower cortisol levels.
Most methods of lowering cortisol are not quick fixes.
They require complete lifestyle changes.
One negative person is going to impact everyone surrounding them.
Book an appointment with a therapist.
Elevated cortisol is commonly due to anxiety.
Even patients who dont suffer from anxiety can benefit from talking to a professional.
In fact, therapy has been proven to lower cortisol levels by thirty percent.
Maintain a healthy diet.
Be careful to avoid white bread, cakes, pastries, candies, and sodas.
Instead, eat bananas, pears, yogurt, and even dark chocolate.
Nutrition is an important part of developing a healthy lifestyle.
Fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acids, which can cause cortisol reduction.
It also aids in weight loss, reduces inflammation, and supports healthy skin.
A great alternative is taking Ashwagandha.
This is an Asian herbal supplement that is used to treat anxiety and reduce cortisol.
It can also reduce blood sugar levels, increase muscle mass, and boost strength.
Coffee has been proven to increase cortisol levels.
The caffeine actuallyrecreatesstress conditions in the body.
Caffeine also makes it difficult to fall asleep at night, and sleep deprivation will lead to elevated cortisol.
Drink a cup of tea.
While coffee can lead to an elevated cortisol level, tea has the opposite effect.
Although it has caffeine in it, it also contains polyphenols and catechins, which are packed with antioxidants.
It will also reduce the risk of heart disease, improve blood flow, and lower cholesterol.
Its been proven that interacting with animals can lower a persons stress levelandblood pressure level.
Adopting a pet can also reduce loneliness, provide social support, and boost moods.
It doesnt matter whether the pet is a dog, a cat, a rabbit, or a turtle.
Cortisol blockers are supplements that are designed to help the body function during times of stress.
This drug is typically used to treat Cushings syndrome or adrenal gland problems.
Although cortisol blockers can lower cortisol production, they are also marketed as a weight loss pill.
However, they should not be used for dieting.
They should only be used to lower cortisol.
Nature pillsare a low-cost way to lower cortisol levels.
Listen to the birds.
Write in a journal.
The simple act of letting off steam will lead to reduced cortisol.
Journaling is an effective way to relieve stress without interacting with others.
It provides an outlet for expressing hurt and frustrated feelings.
However, getting emotions out in the open with a therapist or a trusted friend is also an option.
Either way, its dangerous to keep emotions bottled up inside.
Its better to release stress through journaling, poetry, or any other hobby that sparks joy.
Medication isnt necessarily the best way to cope with a hormonal imbalance.
Lifestyle changes can be even more successful when it comes to lowering cortisol.
Although there are always going to be stressful moments throughout life, its important to avoid any unnecessary stressors.
Choose to be pickyinstead of settling for a toxic environment.
Visualization can also help create a better, healthier future.
Although there are many people who drink alcohol to relax, it actually has the opposite effect.
Consuming alcohol causes high cortisol levels.
The best form of stress reduction is to have fun.
After all, the stress hormone cortisol is a response to the body and mind feeling overwhelmed.
That is why its important to take regular mental health breaks.
Take off from work instead of burning out.
Set aside time to dedicate to mental health.
Remember, the body and the mind are tied together.
When one is suffering, the other is going to follow suit.
Salivary cortisol tests are available at most drug stores.
However, a doctor will have the best medical advice.
Then they can suggest the best way to move forward.
