anti-cortisol foods
Cortisol is a hormone produced by cholesterol and belongs to the group of glucocorticoids. It separates from the adrenal glands after a signal from the pituitary gland.
Cortisol is called the stress hormone and this is by no means accidental – the main factor that stimulates its synthesis is a variety of stresses that can be of different nature – consumption of harmful foods, hard training, traumas, strong emotions, malnutrition, inadequate sleep, illness, pain tests.
cortisol benefits
When cortisol is at normal levels, it only brings benefits to the body. Its normal secretion is important for a number of important processes. Reduces sensitivity to pain, increases the body’s resistance, improves memory and concentration.
High levels of cortisol over a long period of time carry a number of negative aspects. Gradually lowers immunity, decreases the secretion of hormones testosterone and somatotropin, suppresses thyroid function, blood sugar imbalance, increases blood pressure, decreases cognitive abilities.
Constantly reduces muscle tissue, increases fat tissue, accelerates cell aging. High levels of cortisol cause ulcers, diabetes and stretch marks, bone density is reduced, which greatly contributes to osteoporosis.
High cortisol symptoms
The symptoms of high cortisol are different. A person suffering from a similar problem begins to experience different mood swings: anxiety, depression and increased irritability. This is due to the fact that cortisol affects the synthesis of dopamine and serotonin.
As it became clear, cortisol synthesis is highest in the early morning when one needs to wake up and be fresh and energetic. People who have high cortisol in the morning feel tired and bored at the same time.
The weight gradually increases because cortisol not only stimulates the appetite but also increases the desire to eat. High levels of the hormone cause [skin dehydration]which in turn causes premature wrinkles and aging.
High cortisol caused by constant stress can lead to an increase in blood pressure and thus increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
cortisol research
Cortisol study is assigned to determine its blood levels. Two blood samples are usually taken, one in the morning and one at night because the levels are different. Most commonly, such a study is designed to diagnose problems with the pituitary gland or adrenal gland.
Before the appointment, you have to prepare. To do this, physical activity is avoided the day before, and half an hour before the sample itself is put to bed. Taking some medications can change the results, so if you are taking a pill, you should tell your doctor about them.
The study should not be performed after experiencing mental or physical stress during pregnancy or low blood sugar when taking certain medications.
Deviations from the norms may be due to certain diseases and problems. High levels may be due to kidney, liver, obesity, depression, hyperthyroidism. The most common cause is Cushing’s syndrome.
Low cortisol levels can be caused by bleeding in any internal organs or by Addison’s disease.
corrosion control
Avoiding persistently elevated levels of cortisol is an important prerequisite for good health. In order to prevent negative consequences, each person should try to observe several basic rules. First of all, you need to reduce stress as much as possible.
It is the main culprit for high cortisol levels and needs to be adjusted. Full sleep is important, too intense workouts should be replaced by moderate ones. Crash diets are avoided and the diet must be of quality and complete. Coffee and energy drinks should be reduced to avoid cigarette smoke.
Daily stress caused by commitments, immobilization, caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes, lack of sleep and dietary imbalance must be replaced by exercise, yoga and meditation, a complete change in lifestyle .
food and cortisol
As with many other hormones, nutrition is also one of the most important factors in maintaining normal cortisol levels.
To maintain cortisol levels, especially in the case of active and trained people, a proper diet should be developed that includes about 6 meals a day, divided into small portions. A sharply reduced caloric intake can increase cortisol levels by up to 40%.
Increases in cortisol are the result of eating too much sugar, chocolate, and coffee, foods that are high in fat.
Garlic is one of the most helpful foods in terms of cortisol control. This is because it is rich in vitamin C.
You can find more information about foods against cortisol here: http://vitaminozo.com/alimentos-anti-cortisol/