Expert Explained: What is Cortisol

During periods of physical or mental stress, the adrenal glands release cortisol to provide you with energy and put your body on high alert.

What is cortisol in simple words

Cortisol is a hormone produced in the adrenal cortex. It protects the body from stress, regulates blood pressure, is involved in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

What happens when cortisol is elevated

An increase in the level of this hormone in a tense situation from the point of view of the brain allows you to release the supply of glucose and provide the heart, brain and other organs with the energy they need in excess of the norm.

In addition, high cortisol levels increase heart rate and blood pressure.

Symptoms of high cortisol

breakdown of muscle tissue, muscle flabbiness; the formation of stretch marks on the skin; an increase in blood glucose (the hormone reduces the concentration of insulin).

What should be cortisol in women

It is believed that for any human individual, regardless of age, gender, race and weight, the level of cortisol in a normal relaxed state does not exceed 10 mg.

Since the level of this substance is unstable during the day, increased cortisol in women is considered from an indicator of 80 mg.

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• 1 September 2023

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