Cortisol is often called the stress hormone because it’s responsible for our body’s response to stress. When cortisol levels are too high, they can cause a range of health problems. Your body secretes cortisol from the adrenal glands to provide the energy needed to take care of your stress. If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to lower your cortisol levels.
1. You Can’t Sleep Well
If you’re struggling to get a good night’s sleep, it could be a sign that your cortisol levels are too high. Insomnia is a common symptom of high cortisol levels, as the body is in a constant state of alertness. This can lead to fatigue and difficulty concentrating during the day. If you’re struggling to sleep, try relaxation techniques before bed, such as reading or taking a bath. It would help if you also avoided caffeine and screen time in the evening.
2. You Experience Backaches and Headaches
Headaches and backaches are two common signs that your cortisol levels may be too high. High cortisol levels can lead to tension headaches, as well as migraines. Excess cortisol shrinks some essential brain parts, such as the hippocampus. In addition, high cortisol levels can also cause back pain because the adrenal glands begin to get depleted. As such, there is an increase in prolactin levels, which in turn increases the body’s sensitivity to backaches and muscle aches.
3. You’re Developing Excess Belly Fat
If you’re carrying around extra weight, especially in your midsection, it’s a good indication that your body produces too much stress hormone. When cortisol levels are high, your body goes into “survival mode” and starts storing fat for energy. This can lead to weight gain, even if you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
4. You Catch Colds and Other Infections Easily
Chronic elevation of cortisol levels can harm our health because it is directly related to our immune system. If you find that you catch colds and other infections quickly, it may be a sign that your cortisol levels are too high. Cortisol suppresses the immune system, so higher hormone levels can decrease the ability to fight off illness. Therefore, it is essential to consider using a cortisol blocker to reinstate the functionalities of your immune system.
5. You Experience Uncontrollable Cravings
Uncontrollable cravings are one of the most common signs that your cortisol levels are too high. If you find yourself constantly snacking or overeating, it could be a sign that your body is trying to cope with high-stress levels. When your body is under stress, it produces cortisol, which can increase your appetite. As a result, you may eat more than usual, even if you’re not hungry. In addition, cortisol can interfere with the body’s ability to process insulin, resulting in blood sugar fluctuations that can further contribute to your cravings.
6. You’re Anxious All the Time
Panic attacks have always been on the rise, particularly among overweight people, implying a relationship between cortisol and anxiety. If you’re regularly feeling stressed and anxious, it may be a sign that your cortisol levels are too high. When the levels are high, your body will constantly consume calming minerals like calcium and magnesium.
7. Digestion Issues
Cortisol is a hormone that helps you deal with stress, but it can lead to some unpleasant side effects when it’s constantly activated. For one thing, it can wreak havoc on your digestive system. Histamine is produced when cortisol is elevated. Histamine accelerates gastric acid production, increasing the permeability of the stomach walls since they will begin to leak. The problem becomes chronic; digestion becomes disrupted, resulting in bloating and food sensitivities.
8. Reduced Sexual Drive
One sign that your cortisol levels may be too high is if you are experiencing reduced sex drive. High cortisol levels can interfere with producing other hormones, such as testosterone, responsible for sexual function. It may be due to high cortisol levels if you have noticed a decrease in your libido.
Left unchecked, high cortisol levels can wreak havoc on your health. If you’re experiencing any of the signs and symptoms we’ve listed above, it might be time to act to lower your cortisol levels.
