Signs of high cortisol levels

Plus, ways to lower them.

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In a Nutshell Cortisol isn't *only* a stress hormone. It's produced throughout the day to support almost every part of your body, from memory production to blood sugar regulation to immune function. However, having consistently high levels can seriously affect your health and even raise your risk of certain conditions. Today, let's discuss how to spot the signs of high cortisol and what you can do about it to protect yourself. • 12 tips for quickly getting rid of a cold • Rules for weighing yourself — and when to ditch the scale • Maybe don't try the new "fridgescaping" trend Take it easy, Morgan Mandriota Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Morgan Mandriota September 25, 2024 • 3 min read

what's got us buzzing Symptoms of high cortisol levels and what to do about it High cortisol can happen for a number of reasons — pituitary gland issues, medication side effects, and, yes, chronic stress. You may have noticed people on the internet stressing over "cortisol face," a "condition" characterized by facial bloating and puffiness. While stress can lead to swelling, experts are skeptical that cortisol face is a real thing. Here's a list of some *actual* symptoms of high cortisol: acne thinning skin weight gain severe fatigue difficulty concentrating headache trouble sleeping Sound familiar? You may want to speak with a doctor and have your cortisol levels tested. You can do this at home or have a professional do a blood or saliva test. Having moderate to high cortisol levels for an extended period can increase your risk of chronic disease. This includes high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis. So, it's important to keep cortisol in check to protect your short- and long-term health. Aside from reducing stress, there are many ways to manage your cortisol levels: Improve your sleep quality: Try limiting your afternoon caffeine intake, reducing exposure to bright lights, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine to catch better Zzz's. Get regular exercise: A consistent workout routine may promote good health and boost your ability to handle stress. Start a mindfulness practice: A 2019 study found that this can lower cortisol levels in people with generalized anxiety disorder. Yoga, meditation, and tai chi are all great options. Try deep breathing: Controlled breathing helps to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which lowers cortisol levels. Have fun! Laughing releases endorphins and suppresses cortisol production. Build healthy relationships: Receiving support or affection from loved ones can lead to lower cortisol levels, especially in moments of high stress. Eat a nutritious diet: A healthy gut supports overall well-being. Foods that may help manage cortisol, in particular, include dark chocolate, legumes, and whole grains. And don't forget to drink enough water! best at-home cortisol tests

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