Signs of high cortisol levels

Plus, ways to lower them.

͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­

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

Based on your interests Can Light Therapy Improve Your Sleep? READ ON

Great finds Casper the friendly pillow       Casper Essential Pillow Good sleep is one of the many keys to keeping your health — and cortisol levels — in check. Over the last few years, I've tried approximately 7,263,594 pillows in hopes of finding one that helps me sleep through the night and reduce aches and pains. The pillow that I crown victorious is the Casper Essential. It's soft yet sturdy enough to support my neck and shoulders, whether I sleep on my side or back. SHOP NOW Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Store's vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Store are owned by RVO Health.

FROM OPTUM PERKS Save Up to 80% on Your Prescriptions Pay less for your diabetes medication with Optum Perks' free discount card.* Use it at over 64,000 pharmacies across the United States. START SAVING   *It can not be combined with your health insurance. Healthline and Optum Perks are owned by RVO Health. By using this Optum Perks service, we may receive a tangible benefit.

health stories you need What we're reading next ☀️ Ways to naturally increase your serotonin levels. Cortisol, meet serotonin! 💩 Why is poop brown? And what does it mean if you see a different color in the toilet? 🔍 Skin cancer screening recommendations. Is it time for you to go get checked? 🤒 Cramps, nausea, and fever? It may be a C. diff infection. Learn the symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

Thanks for reading! Tim will be back in your inbox on Friday. We'll see you then. ✌️

Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we'll see you again soon!     This edition was powered by dinner with friends.   View in browser Did a friend send you this email? Subscribe here. To see all newsletters, click here. Privacy    |    Unsubscribe Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional. Healthline is owned by RVO Health. © 2024 RVO Health 1101 Red Ventures Drive Fort Mill, SC 29707