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Natural Ways to Lower Cortisol Levels

Cortisol is a hormone in the body that is linked to stress. Cortisol is also called the death hormone because it shuts down hormones that are associated with youth, and people with high levels of cortisol are likely to die younger than those with low levels. The hormone is associated with many health issues, including insomnia and obesity. There are many advertisements on television for non-FDA-approved pills to lower cortisol, but they can be dangerous. Natural ways of lowering cortisol are much healthier and safer.

  1. Relaxation

    • Cortisol is linked to stress. The more stressed you are, the higher your cortisol levels will be. Relaxation techniques will lower your stress and therefore lower your cortisol.

      Relax before bedtime to slow cortisol production while you sleep. Read a book instead of watching television. Ask your significant other to rub your feet to help your body relax. Sleeping well is the best way to fight high cortisol levels.

      Try other relaxation techniques during the day. Take up yoga and learn how to breathe slowly while stretching and releasing tension. When life gets overwhelming, list all the good things in your life, either in your head or physically on paper.

    Diet

    • A healthy diet is important for lowering cortisol levels. Eat plenty of fruits, especially citrus, vegetables and lean protein each day. Drink plenty of water and reduce sugar and caffeine in your diet.

      Pay attention to your calorie intake as well. If you are on a diet that is too low in calories, it will stress the body, triggering the production of cortisol. Make sure that you are eating a reasonable amount of calories each day.

    Supplements

    • Vitamin C is important for lowering cortisol levels. Vitamin C helps to shut down the body's production of cortisol naturally and is very safe to take. Take a supplement or eat citrus fruits and drink plenty of orange juice.

      Many companies offer herbal supplements that claim to be the perfect combination of different herbs to slow cortisol production. Each of these combinations is different and will work differently for each person. If you want to start an herbal treatment program for high cortisol levels, you should see a naturalist, homeopath or herbalist to discuss your specific issues and begin an herbal regimen that is right for you.

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