Cortisol/Adrenal Fatigue
What Is Cortisol?
Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced in the cortex of the adrenal glands. It is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Cortisol is secreted in the largest quantity in the morning. It is sometimes called the “fight or flight” hormone because it initiates a cascade of physical responses to stress, including increased heart rate and providing your body with a quick jolt of energy. It does this by rapidly increasing the amount of sugar in the bloodstream through a process known as glycogenolysis. Cortisol also aids in the metabolism of fat, protein and carbohydrates, and acts to suppress the immune system. Cortisol is essential for health, but too much cortisol related to stress can be very damaging to your health.
Women, Stress, and Cortisol Levels
Chronic stress affects many individuals, but women are often more vulnerable than men. This susceptibility can be attributed to the multiple responsibilities women typically manage, including work, household duties, and caregiving. As a result, chronic stress can lead to imbalances in cortisol levels among women. Elevated cortisol due to ongoing stress can trigger a range of unpleasant symptoms and disrupt the production of progesterone and thyroid hormones, further exacerbating these issues.
Cortisol Imbalance in Women
When faced with stress, the adrenal glands release increased amounts of cortisol, and prolonged periods of stress lead to consistently high cortisol levels. Elevated cortisol can accelerate aging in women and heighten the risk of heart disease, while also depleting essential nutrients. Additionally, high cortisol can compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and promoting the breakdown of muscle and tissue.
Over time, the adrenal glands may struggle to cope with the ongoing stress, leading to fatigue. This adrenal fatigue results in reduced cortisol production, which can produce a variety of negative symptoms and increase the likelihood of health issues, including heart disease.
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