5 warning signs of high stress hormones

High blood pressure warns of high cortisol

Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, is released by the adrenal glands. It spikes in response to various types of stress and is triggered by the brain when your sympathetic nervous system goes into fight-or-flight mode.

Cortisol is an essential hormone that affects nearly every organ and tissue and plays many roles. In addition to regulating the body's stress response, cortisol inhibits inflammation, regulates blood pressure and blood sugar, controls sleep cycles, and helps control the body's use of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and metabolism.

However, prolonged release of stress hormones can have negative effects on health.

Nutritionist Eli Brecher, host of The Gut 360 Podcast, shares five signs of high cortisol. She says many people often don't realize they have high levels of the stress hormone.

High cortisol levels can cause a variety of symptoms throughout the body, depending on the cause. Brecher recommends people be “on the lookout” for the following five signs that may indicate high cortisol levels:

• Weight gain, especially in the abdomen, face, and upper back.
• Round face, redder.
• Severe fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and headaches.
• High blood pressure.
• Thin skin, easy bruising and muscle weakness.

Brecher says symptoms can vary widely, and sometimes you may not feel or notice them. However, if you're concerned about your cortisol levels, Brecher recommends getting tested with a blood, saliva, or urine sample.

In addition to the treatment prescribed by your doctor, there are lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce cortisol naturally. These include sticking to a sleep schedule and establishing good sleep hygiene for better rest; practicing mindfulness and breathing exercises; exercising regularly; and eating a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Also, for better gut and mental health, choose a nutrient-dense diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and foods rich in prebiotics and probiotics. For example, foods that can reduce cortisol levels include: dark chocolate, beans, lentils, green tea, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

LA (according to VnExpress)

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