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What Can Raise Cortisol Levels?

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the body's adrenal glands. When distributed within the body in the right amounts, it regulates glucose and contributes to overall wellness. However, when the body produces too much cortisol, it can lead to weight gain, fatigue, depression and anxiety. If cortisol levels are too low, the result is tiredness, reduced immune system function and decreased blood pressure.

  1. Stress

    • Stress is one of the main culprits of cortisol overproduction in the body. When the body is under a great deal of stress, the adrenal glands attempt to compensate by increasing the production of cortisol to counteract the anxiety. This elevation in cortisol is often called the "fight or flight" response.

    Physical Injury

    • If the body is physically injured, adrenal levels may rise. This is the body's attempt to regulate stress hormones that might increase due to the physical pain caused by the injury.

    Herbs

    • The herb licorice can raise cortisol levels. When cortisol levels are off balance, licorice has been used to medicate. However, with prolonged usage, licorice can elevate cortisol amounts to dangerously high levels. High levels of cortisol cause weight gain, high blood pressure and heart disease.

    Prescriptions

    • When cortisol is produced in the body as a reaction to stress, it assists necessary functions the body requires to respond and adapt to change. If cortisol levels are too low, the necessary bodily functions, such as a rise in blood pressure, may not occur, and individuals can develop a condition known as Asbergers Syndrome. Hydrocortisone is one prescription medication that is given as a treatment for those suffering from low cortisol or an imbalance in cortisol levels.

    Imbalance

    • Thyroid imbalances might also raise cortisol. These imbalances are linked to hormones not performing as they should and can lead to fluctuating glucose levels, and decreased overall muscular endurance and immune system functioning.

    Considerations

    • An overproduction of cortisol in the body might be brought on by any of the above scenarios. To test for elevated cortisol levels, consult your physician or health care provider.

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