Worried about high cortisol? You probably don't need to be

Cortisol, a hormone produced by our adrenal glands, is often misunderstood and unfairly targeted as the cause of various health issues, according to experts interviewed. Theresa Larkin from the University of Wollongong explains that cortisol is essential for life and plays a crucial role in daily functions such as the circadian rhythm, eating, and digestion. It helps maintain adequate glucose levels, ensuring mental and physical alertness throughout the day and night.

Endocrinologist Ann McCormack adds that cortisol has a broad range of functions, including regulating blood pressure, immune system response, and cognitive and emotional processing. Cortisol levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, with spikes occurring in response to stressors like running across the road or preparing for a challenging conversation. However, there's no need for healthy individuals to fear cortisol spikes, as chronic stress, not cortisol itself, is the root of potential health problems.

While cortisol is not typically measured in routine medical exams, doctors may recommend further testing for those with rare conditions like Cushing's syndrome, where high cortisol levels can lead to osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, and weight gain. Experts emphasize the importance of addressing the underlying causes of stress rather than fixating on cortisol levels. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper sleep, regular exercise, and stress management is key to overall well-being.