What Is Cortisol And Ways To Keep It Under Control

Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland. It is mainly released in response to stress. Its main function is to help us deal with stress. Cortisol hormone is even popularly called the 'stress hormone'. 

Now the question is what does cortisol do exactly? So, the function of cortisol is to help regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and other bodily functions. This includes the release of glucose into the bloodstream so that it can be used as fuel. Cortisol also works to suppress the immune system to keep it from overreacting to stressors. If you want to know about your cortisol levels, visit a general physician near me. 

A person's cortisol levels are usually highest in the morning. Cortisol levels also increase when under stress, which can lead to high blood pressure and increased cholesterol levels. That is why it's important to be aware of your cortisol levels and adapt to ways of keeping them under control. One can easily be aware of their cortisol level by looking for some symptoms or signs that our body displays. The next section talks about that.

Symptoms of high cortisol levels one should look for.

Our body tells us everything. One should never ignore the signs of high cortisol levels in the body as it can lead to mood swings, depression and other mental illnesses. 

We can spot if the cortisol levels are high with the help of certain signs. Some symptoms of high cortisol levels are; 

• Unusual Weight gain. The weight gain is significantly on the face and abdomen.

• Purplish stretch marks on your abdomen

• Muscle weakness mostly in your upper arms and thighs.

• High blood sugar is alerting as it can turn into type 2 diabetes.

• High blood pressure 

• Excessive hair growth.

• Osteoporosis is weak bones.

Ways one can lower cortisol levels naturally.

Keeping cortisol levels under control is extremely important as higher levels of cortisol may lead to high blood pressure and an increase in cholesterol levels.

Cortisol can be reduced by taking deep breaths, practising yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises. These are some natural ways.

Some of the ways to control cortisol are:

1. Meditation: It reduces the production of cortisol and helps with stress management.

2. Yoga: Yoga also reduces the production of cortisol and helps with stress management.

3. Gratitude journaling: Journaling can help people feel more grateful for what they have in their lives. This can reduce their stress levels and help them manage their cortisol better.

4. Get enough sleep: getting enough sleep is important for your overall health. It also helps with your cortisol levels. Not enough or dealing with sleep issues such as insomnia can contribute to higher levels of cortisol.

5. Exercise religiously: exercising regularly and religiously would benefit your body in the long run. Exercise helps in better blood circulation which in turn benefits overall health. It does not have to be extreme exercise. Just one or two simple exercises will do the task.

6. Eat healthily

Eating healthy serves you in many ways. To reduce cortisol levels, focus more on eating cortisol-lowering foods. Such foods must be high in vitamin C. Bananas, oranges, melons, spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and prunes are some of the foods one can have. Having some black or green tea will also be beneficial.

These natural ways might work at the starting point of the problem with cortisol levels. But if the condition progresses, one may need to see the best general physician in Delhi for further assistance. However, these above-mentioned natural ways are still effective because they are very beneficial in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 

Lowering cortisol levels with the help of Medication 

Nevertheless, as mentioned earlier, the problem with higher cortisol levels may turn into Cushing syndrome. To deal with Cushing syndrome, you have to consult with the best general physician in Delhi. 

Medications are also a way to deal with High cortisol levels. Medication can be used to control or reduce cortisol levels for people suffering from Cushing syndrome. This is done when there is a risk of having to perform therapy or surgery. Medication can lower the signs and symptoms and thus minimize the impact of the condition.

There are several medications available to control cortisol levels but should be taken under a doctor's supervision. Along with medication, making necessary lifestyle changes and alterations in daily health habits is significantly important to cope with the condition.