How to Reduce High Cortisol

Secreted by the adrenal glands, cortisol is referred to as the "fight-or-flight" hormone. In an emergency, cortisol provides the body with the added energy needed to flee the situation or to stay and fight. Once the body feels safe, the amount of cortisol present in the bloodstream diminishes to a normal level.

Due to hectic lifestyles and other stress factors, however, elevated cortisol levels often don't return to normal and cause numerous health disturbances, such as hypoglycemia, hypertension and thyroid impairment. Fortunately, you can use certain methods to reduce a high cortisol level for optimal health.

Instructions

• 1

  Reduce or manage stress. Because the adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, produce high amounts of cortisol during stressful situations, it is important to reduce the amount of stress in your life. If you experience chronic stress, you may benefit from stress-relieving techniques such as aromatherapy, yoga, deep-breathing exercises and moderate exercise. Dancing to your favorite tune and taking up a hobby are other alternatives.

• 2

  Drink enough water. Not drinking enough water leads to dehydration. Dehydration, in turn, puts added stress on muscles, kidneys and the the rest of the body. In such a state, the body resorts to higher levels of cortisol to cope with the added stress. Drink eight to 10 glasses of water throughout each day, even if you're not thirsty.

• 3

  Eliminate sugar and simple or refined carbohydrates from your diet. Cortisol is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates. The more carbohydrates you eat, the more cortisol your adrenal glands produce to metabolize them. Instead, include 100 percent whole grains, brown rice instead of white rice, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

• 4

  Sleep enough. Lack of sleep also stresses the body and leads to high cortisol levels. If you have trouble sleeping, 1 cup of chamomile or lavender tea before going to bed may relax you enough to get the recommended eight hours of sleep.

• 5

  Eliminate caffeine from your diet. It stresses the body and increases cortisol levels.

• 6

  Seek the company of others. A sense of belonging and of being needed aid in stress reduction, hence, reducing a high cortisol level.