When I switched from being a disease management nurse coach to a corporate trainer, I was lucky to have some amazing mentors. They were fantastic nurses and educators who always shared wisdom that I still pass on to others. That’s one of the reasons I included the word "wisdom" in my company’s title.
One particular piece of advice I received before I had to speak in public has stuck with me: “Cheri, you control your cortisol level. You can choose to be calm and collected or feel stressed and frantic, but either way, you still have to speak.” After thinking about this oddly timed reminder of how our body works, I opted for deep breaths and tried to keep my heart from racing loud enough for everyone to hear.
Today, with all that’s happening in the world—floods, fires, and heartbreaking plane crashes—it feels like we’re all on edge, and our bodies are constantly anxious and stressed. During stressful times, our bodies churn out cortisol, the primary stress hormone, which can affect our internal health and outward appearance.
So, how does cortisol impact us, and what can we do to lower its levels naturally?
The Science Behind Cortisol and Its Effects on the Body
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress and is essential for regulating metabolism, blood sugar levels, and immune function. We usually produce the right amount of cortisol to keep our bodies in balance. However, when cortisol levels remain elevated due to prolonged stress, it can lead to various negative effects on your health.
Disrupted Metabolism: Chronic high cortisol can increase blood sugar levels and may lead to insulin resistance, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight.
Weakened Immune System: High cortisol decreases our immune functions, making the body more open to infections and illnesses.
Cardiovascular Stress: Constant stress can elevate blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Muscle Breakdown: Cortisol encourages protein breakdown in muscles, leading to muscle loss and reduced strength over time.
Digestive Issues: Stress can interfere with gut health, causing symptoms such as bloating, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Mood Disorders: Excess cortisol is linked to anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating, further impacting daily life and well-being.
Cortisol Alters Our Body’s Appearance
Having high cortisol levels can change our appearance. These outward changes can be signs that we need to lower our cortisol levels.
Puffiness and Inflammation: Stress triggers inflammation and leads to water retention, which might make your face and body look puffy and swollen.
Skin Aging: When cortisol levels go up, it speeds up breakdown of collagen. This can lead to early wrinkles, sagging skin, and a loss of elasticity.
Acne and Breakouts: Cortisol can lead to clogged pores and an increase in acne flare-ups since it increases oil production.
Dull or Uneven Skin Tone: Reduced blood flow to the skin under stress can cause the skin to appear dull or uneven.
Dark Circles and Eye Bags: Poor sleep, often associated with stress, can increase under-eye darkness and puffiness.
Weight Gain, Especially Around the Midsection: Elevated cortisol can increase cravings for high-calorie foods and promote fat storage in the abdominal area.
The Science Behind Cortisol and Its Effects on the Body
Life will always be stressful, but there are things we can do to lower our stress, naturally reduce cortisol, and promote overall well-being.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or meditation can help lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation.
Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps regulate cortisol production and improves circulation, which can enhance skin health and overall vitality.
Balanced Diet: Consuming antioxidant-rich foods such as leafy greens, berries, and nuts can counteract oxidative stress and promote skin regeneration.
Quality Sleep: Ensuring 7-9 hours of sleep per night aids in cellular repair and keeps cortisol levels in check.
Hydration and Skincare: Drinking plenty of water and using hydrating skincare products can help maintain skin elasticity and combat the drying effects of stress.
Limiting Caffeine and Sugar: Excess caffeine and sugar can contribute to cortisol spikes, so moderating intake can help stabilize stress levels.
Connecting with Loved Ones: Social support plays a crucial role in stress reduction, helping to keep cortisol levels in a healthy range.
Dealing with stress during difficult times, like what many are experiencing, can take a toll on both our mental and physical well-being. Adopting natural strategies to lower cortisol can help lower these effects and support our overall health. Chronic Health Wisdom LLC is dedicated to providing insights and solutions that empower individuals to take control of their health holistically. Remember, self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for a healthier, happier you. If you want more support or information please contact us today.
References
Mayo Clinic. "Stress management: Examine your stress reaction." www.mayoclinic.org
American Psychological Association. "Stress effects on the body." www.apa.org
National Institutes of Health. "Cortisol: What It Does & How To Control It." www.nih.gov
Harvard Health Publishing. "Understanding the stress response." www.health.harvard.edu