Understanding Cortisol: should We All Be Worried?
Table of Contents
- 1. Understanding Cortisol: should We All Be Worried?
- 2. what Does Cortisol Do?
- 3. Cortisol: Understanding the “Stress Hormone” and Its Roles
- 4. Do You Need a cortisol Blood Test?
- 5. Signs You Might Need a Cortisol Test: Adrenal Insufficiency
- 6. Symptoms of Excess Cortisol (Cushing’s Syndrome)
- 7. Understanding Cortisol Levels: My Personal Experience
- 8. Understanding Cortisol Levels: What’s Normal and When to Worry
- 9. Understanding Elevated Cortisol: When Stress levels Impact Your Health
- 10. Unraveling the Mysteries of Cortisol: What Does an Abnormal Test Mean?
- 11. What Disrupts the Cortisol Cycle?
- 12. Is Your Cortisol Level Making You Anxious?
- 13. Understanding Cortisol: Lifestyle Factors and Natural Ways to Manage Stress Hormones
- 14. Naturally Reducing Cortisol: A Lifestyle Approach
- 15. What are the signs that indicate a need to consult a doctor about possibly elevated cortisol levels?
Cortisol, often dubbed teh “stress hormone,” has become a hot topic online, particularly in discussions about anxiety and overall well-being. Its influence on our bodies is undeniable, impacting everything from energy levels to sleep patterns. But how much should we actually worry about our cortisol levels?
Driven by curiosity, especially as someone who experiences anxiety, I decided to delve deeper. I took a cortisol blood test, hoping to gain clarity on my own levels. While the results provided valuable insights, they also sparked numerous questions. To truly understand cortisol’s role in our lives, I consulted with several medical professionals. Their expertise shed light on the complexities of this engaging hormone and helped me answer the crucial question: Should we all be concerned about our cortisol levels?
what Does Cortisol Do?
Cortisol is a powerful hormone produced by the adrenal glands, located just above the kidneys. Its primary role is to regulate various bodily functions, acting as a crucial player in our response to stress. Think of cortisol as your body’s alarm system, kicking into gear when faced with challenges, whether physical or emotional.
When stress arises, cortisol levels surge, providing a burst of energy to help us cope. It increases blood sugar, sharpens focus, and even suppresses the immune system temporarily. These responses are essential for navigating stressful situations, allowing us to react quickly and effectively.
Though, chronic stress leads to prolonged cortisol elevation, disrupting the delicate balance. Over time, consistently high cortisol levels can wreak havoc on our physical and mental health.
Cortisol: Understanding the “Stress Hormone” and Its Roles
Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” is a crucial hormone produced and released by the adrenal glands.
“Many people associate cortisol as being the ‘stress hormone,’ but it actually has many additional important functions,” explains Dr. Sanjay Dixit, medical director of cardiometabolic endocrine and wellness solutions at Quest Diagnostics and medical expert for questhealth.com.
While its role in managing our response to stress is significant, cortisol also performs several other essential tasks. It regulates blood sugar and blood pressure, influences the sleep-wake cycle and metabolism, and even helps suppress inflammation.
“It is most commonly known as the ‘stress hormone’ because it’s released in response to stress and works to prepare the body for ’fight-or-flight,'” says Dr. sajad Zalzala, co-founder and chief medical officer of longevity platform AgelessRx. “It increases glucose availability, which supplies energy and mobilizes stored fats and proteins to provide additional fuel.”
Understanding cortisol’s multifaceted roles highlights its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being.Finding ways to manage stress levels and support healthy cortisol balance can contribute to a better quality of life.
Do You Need a cortisol Blood Test?
Cortisol is a crucial hormone produced by your adrenal glands, playing a vital role in regulating stress response, energy levels, and various bodily functions.
Sometimes, your body might need a helping hand to maintain healthy cortisol levels, and that’s where cortisol blood tests come in. dr. Dixit explains that these tests can pinpoint whether you have too little or too much cortisol, each scenario presenting unique symptoms and requiring tailored medical attention.
Signs You Might Need a Cortisol Test: Adrenal Insufficiency
A cortisol deficiency, also known as adrenal insufficiency, can manifest in several ways, including:
Persistent Fatigue: Feeling constantly drained and weary, even after getting enough sleep.
Weakened Muscles: Experiencing noticeable muscle weakness and a decrease in physical strength.
Skin Changes: Observing darkening of the skin, especially in areas prone to folds and scars.
Loss of Appetite: A significant decrease in your desire to eat, which can lead to unintentional weight loss.
Low Blood Pressure: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, particularly upon standing, due to a drop in blood pressure.
Dr. Dixit emphasizes that seeking medical advice is crucial if you experience these symptoms.
Symptoms of Excess Cortisol (Cushing’s Syndrome)
On the flip side, having too much cortisol, known as Cushing’s syndrome, can also lead to a range of symptoms:
Easy Bruising: Noticeably more bruising than usual, even after minor bumps or injuries.
Unintended Weight Gain: Putting on weight despite having a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Muscle Weakness: Feeling weak and experiencing difficulty performing everyday activities.
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
Facial Changes: Developing a “moon face” with a rounded and rosy appearance.
Central Obesity: Gaining weight primarily around the abdomen and upper back.
Impaired Glucose Tolerance: Having difficulty managing blood sugar levels, particularly crucial for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Dr. Dixit notes that this can be a significant concern for those with type 2 diabetes who struggle to regulate their glucose levels even when adhering to their prescribed medications.
“This impaired glucose tolerance can be particularly noticeable in type 2 diabetic patients who have trouble managing their glucose levels even with adherence to prescribed medication,” says Dr. Dixit.
A cortisol blood test can provide valuable insights into your hormonal health, helping your healthcare provider make informed decisions to address any imbalances and support your overall well-being.
Understanding Cortisol Levels: My Personal Experience
Cortisol,frequently enough dubbed the “stress hormone,” plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions,from energy metabolism to immune response. Understanding its levels can provide valuable insights into our overall well-being. Curious to learn more, I decided to delve into the world of cortisol testing.
Ordering the cortisol blood test online was a straightforward process. However, specific guidelines apply. According to Quest Diagnostics, potential testers must be 18 years or older. Notably, this particular test isn’t available in Alaska, Arizona, or hawaii. For selected tests, users must answer medical history questions. These details, along with your purchase, are reviewed by a telemedicine doctor affiliated with pwnhealth, ensuring medical appropriateness. Interestingly,scheduling for this test must fall between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m.
“Cortisol levels naturally change throughout the day,” explains Quest Diagnostics, highlighting the significance of morning blood draws. They note that cortisol levels typically peak in the morning, making this timeframe ideal for gauging potential issues. Unlike other blood tests, fasting isn’t required for a cortisol blood test. While the online process seemed simple, it’s crucial to remember, as dr. Dixit emphasizes, “a blood test for cortisol can be inaccurate in some cases. “Certain medications, like oral contraceptives or steroids such as prednisone, can influence results.
I opted for a convenient online purchase through Quest’s website. After completing the purchase, which cost $89 with an additional $6 physician service fee, I received confirmation details, including a link to schedule my appointment.Selecting a nearby Quest location, I scheduled an appointment for 8:20 a.m. The lab’s efficiency impressed me; I received a text message link to check in upon arrival, and within minutes, I was admitted.For individuals like me who experience anxiety related to blood tests, requesting to lie down on an exam table alleviated my stress. My technician understood completely,and she skillfully engaged in conversation,serving as a calming distraction throughout the process.
Receiving the cortisol test results, however, wasn’t a swift endeavor. While some lab results take days, my cortisol results arrived surprisingly fast. Other tests ordered by my doctor, however, took five days to arrive, reflecting Quest’s average processing time, typically taking up to eight business days.
Unsurprisingly, my cortisol blood test revealed a result categorized as “high” at 33.2 mcg/dL. Quest Diagnostics reports a normal range between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. of 4.0-22.0 mcg/dL. Honestly, the news gave me a jolt. While I suspected elevated levels due to general anxiety, witnessing the concrete data heightened my stress levels further.
Recognizing the importance of professional interpretation, I opted for Quest’s offer to discuss the results with an autonomous physician.This involved connecting with Quest’s customer service and scheduling an appointment with a PWNHealth physician through Everly Health solutions, a digital health company that acquired PWNHealth. Providing context regarding my cortisol test, I received assurance that a physician would contact me within 4 hours.
Understanding the delicate balance of cortisol in our bodies is crucial for overall well-being. This powerful hormone,often referred to as the “stress hormone,” plays a pivotal role in various bodily functions,from regulating metabolism to managing our response to stress. But what exactly constitutes normal cortisol levels, and how does this hormone fluctuate throughout the day?
Dr. Zalzala, an expert in the field, sheds light on this complex topic. She emphasizes that ”The ‘normal’ reference range varies slightly depending on the laboratory conducting the test.” As a notable example, Quest Diagnostics typically reports a normal morning blood cortisol level (between 7 and 9 a.m.) ranging from 4.0 to 22.0 mcg/dL, while Labcorp’s normal range is slightly narrower, at 6.2 to 19.4 mcg/dL.
The ebb and flow of cortisol throughout the day is a carefully orchestrated process designed to keep our bodies functioning optimally. “Cortisol is vital for helping a person transition from sleep to wakefulness,” explains Dr. Zalzala. This transition is marked by a surge in cortisol levels within 20 to 30 minutes of waking, known as the “morning cortisol surge.” this surge serves as a powerful jolt to the system, jumpstarting alertness and preparing the body for the day ahead.
But the story doesn’t end there. Our bodies experience smaller peaks in cortisol levels throughout the day,typically around noon and in the early evening.”Interestingly, these peaks often coincide with standard meal times,” notes Dr. Zalzala.This temporal alignment plays a significant role in supporting our body’s ability to effectively process food and regulate energy levels.
Understanding Cortisol Levels: What’s Normal and When to Worry
Cortisol, often called the “stress hormone,” plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and blood sugar. Our bodies naturally produce cortisol throughout the day, following a predictable rhythm.
Dr. Betul Hatipoglu, a professor of medicine at Case Western Reserve University’s School of Medicine and medical director of the Diabetes and Metabolic Center at the university Hospital Cleveland Medical center, explains, ”There is a ‘normal, what we call ‘circadian rhythm’ for cortisol.” As the day progresses, cortisol levels gradually decrease, reaching their lowest point around bedtime.
But what happens when cortisol levels deviate from this normal pattern?
According to Dr. Hatipoglu, in situations of extreme illness, such as being in intensive care, cortisol levels can surge to as high as 40 mcg/dL. During times of stress, a normal adult’s cortisol levels can rise up to 50 mcg/dL, which is about two to three times their morning peak. This surge helps the body cope with demanding situations.
though, certain medical conditions can lead to significantly elevated cortisol levels. Cushing’s syndrome, a rare disorder, is one such example.
Dr. Rami Zalzala explains that in Cushing’s syndrome, “the adrenal gland starts making cortisol on its own (adrenal tumor) or in response to a pituitary gland tumor that makes too much ACTH [adrenocorticotropic hormone, which regulates cortisol] and ignores the feedback cycle.” This disruption in the hormonal balance can cause cortisol levels to reach as high as 100 mcg/dL.
In extreme cases of illness, such as septic shock, cortisol levels can soar to even more alarming heights, exceeding 1,000 mcg/dL, according to Dr. Zalzala.
Understanding the normal range of cortisol levels and the factors that can influence them is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Understanding Elevated Cortisol: When Stress levels Impact Your Health
When faced with elevated cortisol levels, it’s natural to wonder about the underlying causes and implications. I recently discovered that my cortisol levels were higher than normal, prompting me to seek expert insights into the relationship between stress, anxiety, and cortisol. Consulting with several medical professionals, I gained valuable understanding of how stress hormones can affect our bodies and what steps we can take to manage them.
Dr. Hatipoglu explained that elevated cortisol levels in healthy individuals often indicate stress. However, other factors can influence cortisol, such as medications. “Sometimes, other hormones can affect cortisol levels. For example, if someone is taking oral contraceptives or estrogen therapy, this can increase total cholesterol, which is what you have been tested for,” he stated.
Dr. Zalzala, meanwhile, acknowledged the impact of immediate stressors on cortisol levels. “Studies have shown that stress or acute anxiety can drive cortisol levels significantly higher,frequently enough to values similar to what you experienced,” he explained. In my case, fasting, anxiety, and the stress of the blood draw likely contributed to my elevated morning cortisol reading.
Navigating the complexities of cortisol testing, Dr. Hatipoglu highlighted the importance of considering various factors. “I usually would check a random cortisol before 9 a.m.in the morning to make sure the level is not low. If we are concerned about high cortisol, it is usually recommended that we actually do different evaluations.” These evaluations may include tests like the dexamethasone suppression test,which assesses the adrenal gland’s ability to suppress cortisol production,or a 24-hour urine cortisol test,providing a complete picture of daily cortisol levels.Dr. hatipoglu noted that stopping birth control for several months before repeating a cortisol test could reveal more accurate baseline levels, as hormonal contraceptives can influence cortisol.
Dr. Zalzala, however, takes a different approach. “I rarely recommend a single morning cortisol test unless a patient is believed to have Addison’s or Cushing’s disease,” he stated.Addison’s disease, a rare endocrine disorder, occurs when damaged adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient hormones.
Dr. Zalzala prefers saliva cortisol testing for individuals seeking lifestyle adjustments or monitoring the effects of interventions like therapy or sleep medications. “Studies indicate that salivary cortisol levels show a reasonably strong correlation with serum cortisol,” he explained.
Addressing my specific elevated cortisol result,Dr. Zalzala stated, ”While this result aligns with the stress factors you’ve described, cortisol levels above 20–25 µg/dL [which is the same as mcg/dL] in the morning can sometimes prompt further evaluation, particularly if symptoms suggest additional hormonal imbalance.”
If supplementary tests under less stressful conditions reveal continued elevation, Dr. zalzala recommends exploring additional factors with a healthcare provider. “They may consider repeating the test using alternative methods, like a 24-hour urinary free cortisol or late-night salivary cortisol test, which are less affected by immediate stress responses.”
Ultimately, Dr. Dixit emphasizes the importance of consulting a doctor for personalized guidance.”While this particular cortisol blood stress hormone test can be a good first step,it may not necessarily be the last one. he suggests, “A person concerned about their health should talk to their doctor—even if the test results don’t show anything wrong.”
Unraveling the Mysteries of Cortisol: What Does an Abnormal Test Mean?
Cortisol, often dubbed the “stress hormone,” plays a vital role in our bodies, regulating everything from energy levels to blood sugar. When cortisol levels are imbalanced, it can signal underlying health issues. So, what happens if a cortisol blood test reveals something amiss?
“The best course of action is to consult a physician, nurse practitioner, or healthcare provider for an evaluation,” advises Dr.Hatipoglu. “This will help determine if the elevation is genuine or simply stress-induced.”
Dr. Dixit emphasizes the importance of seeking expertise beyond a primary care physician. He recommends consulting an endocrinologist, a specialist in hormone-related disorders. ”Testing for excess cortisol isn’t as straightforward as a single blood test,” he explains. A thorough evaluation, additional tests, and consideration of other contributing factors are crucial.
If further testing still points to abnormalities, a trained clinician is essential. “Most physicians would initially investigate Cushing’s or Addison’s disease,” states Dr. Zalzala. “If those are ruled out, a thorough evaluation will delve into other factors influencing cortisol levels. Conversely, a less attentive approach might dismiss the patient without addressing the root cause.”
Fortunately, Dr. Dixit assures us that treatment options depend on the underlying issue.
For example, Cushing’s syndrome, which can be triggered by tumors on the adrenal or pituitary glands, may require medication or surgery.
What Disrupts the Cortisol Cycle?
Dr. Zalzala sheds light on the common factors that disrupt the natural cortisol rhythm, which can be detected through salivary tests when conducted at specific times of day.
- Low and flat cortisol levels throughout the day: Chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, burnout, and certain chronic inflammatory conditions
- Lower morning cortisol followed by an evening peak: Chronic stress, sleep disorders, shift work, and conditions like PTSD
- Normal morning levels with an evening rise: Anxiety, a high-stress lifestyle, evening exposure to artificial light (like from screens), and late-day caffeine consumption or stressful activities
- Absent or low rise in cortisol upon waking (Cortisol Awakening Response):** Chronic stress, depression, PTSD, burnout, and shift work
Is Your Cortisol Level Making You Anxious?
Cortisol, often dubbed the “stress hormone,” has become a hot topic on social media. While these platforms frequently simplify complex health issues for quick engagement, it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction. Although oversimplified, the constant focus on cortisol has a kernel of truth. Dr. Zalzala,a medical professional,emphasizes that neglecting cortisol dysregulation is unwise.
She explains that chronically elevated cortisol levels can have a devastating impact on our well-being, manifesting in a wide range of health issues:
- Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, and mood swings become more frequent and intense.
- Cognitive Decline: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making become commonplace.
- Metabolic Mayhem: Weight gain, insulin resistance, and a heightened risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and blood sugar imbalances can arise.
- Cardiovascular Concerns: High blood pressure, stiff arteries, chronic inflammation, and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke loom large.
- Weakened Immunity: Increased susceptibility to infections and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus becomes a reality.
- Bone and Muscle Loss: Osteoporosis and muscle wasting become more prevalent.
- Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, chronic fatigue, low motivation, and difficulty managing stress become constant companions.
- Digestive Distress: Gastrointestinal inflammation can contribute to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and exacerbate symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and contribute to gastric ulcers.
So, should you be concerned about your cortisol levels? It’s understandable to be worried after seeing all the alarming social media posts. However, Dr. Zalzala cautions against widespread panic. Cortisol is a vital hormone, and its levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect chronic cortisol elevation. They can assess your individual situation, run appropriate tests, and recommend personalized strategies to manage stress and achieve optimal cortisol balance.
Understanding Cortisol: Lifestyle Factors and Natural Ways to Manage Stress Hormones
Cortisol, often dubbed the “stress hormone,” plays a vital role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and blood sugar levels. Though, in today’s fast-paced world, chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, potentially impacting our overall well-being. While testing cortisol levels may be beneficial for individuals with specific health concerns, understanding its natural fluctuations is crucial. Dr.Hatipoglu emphasizes, “I don’t think it is fair to say people should be concerned about their cortisol levels – as you can see, cortisol constantly fluctuates. The fluctuation occurs so many times that it is sometimes even difficult to know what is very normal or very abnormal.” If you’re concerned about your cortisol, she recommends consulting a doctor to determine if testing is necessary.
Dr. Zalzala acknowledges the importance of managing cortisol levels,stating that “there is some truth to the concept of ‘minding your cortisol levels’ because medical conditions can cause abnormal cortisol levels.” Though, he cautions against the tendency of social media to oversimplify the issue, frequently enough portraying cortisol as the sole culprit behind various health problems.He explains, “Cortisol imbalances are typically caused by deeper issues such as poor sleep, unhealthy habits, unmanaged stress, and substance abuse, in which case ‘cortisol is more of a symptom than the root cause.'” He stresses the importance of a holistic approach, utilizing tools like continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and sleep trackers alongside cortisol monitoring for a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s well-being.
Naturally Reducing Cortisol: A Lifestyle Approach
Both Dr. Hatipoglu and Dr. Zalzala advocate for a multi-faceted approach to naturally manage cortisol levels. Dr. Hatipoglu highlights the significance of incorporating lifestyle modifications into daily routines, emphasizing “important, basic lifestyle management, [including] nutritious meals and good nutrition; movement exercise like yoga, walking, and swimming; a good night’s sleep, meditation, and mindfulness; good vitamin D; and stress management for day-to-day stresses of life.” she also emphasizes the importance of eliminating smoking and excessive alcohol consumption whenever possible.
Dr. Zalzala recommends minimizing caffeine and sugar intake, particularly in the evening. He explains, “Both can elevate cortisol and disrupt the normal rhythm, making it harder to wind down at night.” excessive sugar and starch can cause blood sugar spikes followed by crashes, which can disrupt sleep, further impacting cortisol balance.
Cultivating a consistent sleep schedule and a relaxing evening routine free of screen time and strenuous exercise can significantly contribute to healthy cortisol levels. By prioritizing sleep, managing stress, and nourishing our bodies with wholesome foods, we can empower ourselves to naturally regulate cortisol and promote overall well-being.
Understanding your cortisol levels can be a powerful tool in managing your overall health and well-being. While sometimes a bit unnerving to dive into these intricate biological mechanisms, obtaining insights into your cortisol levels can provide crucial information for making informed decisions about your lifestyle.
If you find yourself consistently struggling to fall asleep despite winding down for bed, Dr. Zalzala suggests exploring mild sleep aids like melatonin or L-theanine. ”If these aren’t effective, consult a doctor about medications like trazodone or doxepin and rule out conditions like sleep apnea,” he advises. Remember, it’s always best to discuss sleep therapies, including over-the-counter supplements, with a healthcare professional.
My personal experience with a cortisol blood test revealed some interesting information. while initially seeing the results was a bit stressful,ultimately,it proved to be incredibly valuable. This knowledge has fueled my desire to further prioritize stress management techniques.
Even though I’ve always been dedicated to my health, the results of the test have inspired me to take concrete steps. I’ve increased my exercise routine, made it a point to get to bed earlier, and am actively exploring new ways to reduce stress in my life. Paying closer attention to my diet has also become a priority.
The process of ordering the test through Quest was straightforward,and I appreciated the sense of control it gave me regarding my health monitoring. The option to consult with an independent physician regarding the results was also beneficial. However,both Quest and the doctors I spoke with emphasized the importance of conducting any health tests under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Their supervision ensures proper diagnosis and treatment plans based on individual needs.
I was glad to share the test results with my doctor, and the seamless process of sending them made interaction smooth. Now, I feel more informed about potential future testing requirements and empowered to take charge of my health journey.
What are the signs that indicate a need to consult a doctor about possibly elevated cortisol levels?
Here’s a simplified summary of the key points from the provided text:
When to See a Doctor:
- If you notice prolonged spells of high cortisol levels, it’s advised to consult a physician, nurse practitioner, or healthcare provider for evaluation. This helps determine if the elevation is genuine or stress-induced.
- If initial tests point to abnormally high cortisol levels, consulting an endocrinologist (hormone specialist) is recommended. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, perform additional tests, and consider other contributing factors.
Factors Disrupting Cortisol Rhythm:
- Low and flat cortisol levels throughout the day: Chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, burnout, and certain chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Lower morning cortisol followed by an evening peak: Chronic stress, sleep disorders, shift work, and conditions like PTSD.
- Normal morning levels with an evening rise: Anxiety, high-stress lifestyle, evening exposure to artificial light, late-day caffeine consumption, or stressful activities.
- Absent or low rise in cortisol upon waking: Chronic stress, depression, PTSD, burnout, and shift work.
Health Impacts of Chronically Elevated Cortisol:
- Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
- Cognitive decline, including memory problems and impaired decision-making.
- Metabolic disorders like weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
- cardiovascular concerns, including high blood pressure, stiff arteries, and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Weakened immunity and increased susceptibility to infections and autoimmune diseases.
- Bone and muscle loss, leading to osteoporosis and muscle wasting.
- Sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue.
- Digestive distress,such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and exacerbation of inflammatory bowel diseases.
Managing Cortisol Levels:
- Consult a healthcare professional if you suspect chronic cortisol elevation. They can assess your situation, run appropriate tests, and recommend personalized strategies to manage stress and achieve optimal cortisol balance.
- Understanding the natural fluctuations of cortisol is crucial,and continual testing may not be necessary for everyone.
- A holistic approach, utilizing tools like continuous glucose monitors (cgms), sleep trackers, and cortisol monitoring, can provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s well-being.
- Incorporate lifestyle modifications such as nutritious meals, regular exercise, good sleep, meditation, stress management, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to naturally manage cortisol levels.
