Part Two of Two: The Dark Side of Cortisol: Understanding the Negative Effects of the Stress Hormone

Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress. While it serves essential functions in the body, excessive or prolonged production of cortisol can have negative effects on overall health. In this blog post, we'll explore the potential drawbacks of cortisol and how it can impact the body when levels become imbalanced, supported by relevant research findings.

What is Cortisol? Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of the kidneys. It is released in response to stress and low blood sugar levels, and it is responsible for regulating various processes in the body, including metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure.

Negative Effects of Cortisol on the Body

1. Chronic stress: When the body is exposed to ongoing stress, cortisol levels remain elevated for extended periods. This can result in a range of symptoms, such as weight gain, sleep disturbances, and decreased immune function. A study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology found that individuals with higher levels of perceived stress had significantly higher cortisol levels compared to those with lower stress levels (Kirschbaum et al., 1995).
2. Weight gain and insulin resistance: Prolonged cortisol exposure can cause cells to become resistant to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A study published in the journal Obesity found that women with higher levels of cortisol secretion were more likely to experience weight gain and increased abdominal fat over time (Epel et al., 2000).
3. Hormonal imbalances: High cortisol levels can disrupt the balance of other hormones in the body, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This can result in symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, decreased libido, and mood swings.
4. Digestive issues: Elevated cortisol levels can impair digestive function, leading to symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
5. Mental health issues: Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels have been linked to an increased risk of developing mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Research published in the journal Biological Psychiatry found that individuals with major depressive disorder had higher cortisol levels and a blunted cortisol response to stress compared to healthy controls (Burke et al., 2005).
6. Cardiovascular disease: Over time, chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease by increasing blood pressure, promoting inflammation, and contributing to the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
7. Impaired cognitive function: Chronic exposure to high cortisol levels can negatively impact brain function, particularly in the areas of learning and memory. A study published in the journal Neuroscience found that older adults with higher cortisol levels performed worse on memory tests compared to those with lower cortisol levels (Lupien et al., 1998).

In conclusion, while cortisol serves essential functions in the body, excessive or prolonged production can have negative effects on overall health. Chronic stress, weight gain, hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, mental health problems, cardiovascular disease, and impaired cognitive function are some of the potential consequences of imbalanced cortisol levels. By incorporating stress management techniques, prioritizing sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet, individuals can help regulate their cortisol levels and reduce the risk of cortisol-related health issues.

-Coach Sherri