April 8th - Cortisol

Meeting overview In this meeting, we discussed the physiological effects of cortisol, and the benefits of lowering one's cortisol levels.
Start time: 12:31 pm
End time: 3:21 pm

Introduction

From Cleveland Clinic: "Cortisol is a steroid hormone that your adrenal glands (the glands on top of your kidneys) make. Cortisol affects several aspects of your health and helps regulate your body’s response to stress. High or low levels of cortisol can impact your health."

High cortisol levels can cause stress. Other symptoms include:
  • high blood pressure
  • weight gain
  • muscle weakness

However, extremely low cortisol levels are also dangerous, so having a good, stable cortisol level is important.

How do I lower my cortisol?

Lowering your cortisol level is easy, and the recommended methods are often good health advice in general:

  1. get a good night's sleep
  2. stay physically active
  3. practice breathing exercises
  4. do activities you enjoy
  5. have healthy relationships

Gallery

Meme showing a dial with the label 'CORTISOL LEVEL', and an arrow indicating low cortisol.

Cortisol Survey


Getting good sleep
Phsyical exercise
Having healthy relationships