Cortisol is often called the stress hormone, but it does much more: it regulates metabolism, blood sugar, blood pressure and immune function. A healthy cortisol balance is essential for wellbeing.
Normal values
Cortisol fluctuates throughout the day. Morning (7-9am): 200-700 nmol/L (peak). Afternoon: 100-350. Evening: 50-150 (lowest). Always test in the morning for comparable results.
Too high
Chronic stress (most common), sleep deprivation, overtraining, Cushing syndrome (rare), corticosteroid medications. Symptoms: abdominal weight gain, sleep problems, irritability, high blood sugar.
Too low
Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease, rare), sudden cessation of corticosteroids, pituitary problems. Symptoms: extreme fatigue, low blood pressure, weight loss.
Keeping cortisol balanced
Sleep 7-9 hours, exercise moderately, limit caffeine, eat regularly, practise relaxation techniques and address chronic stressors.
Frequently asked questions
Can coffee affect my cortisol test?
Yes, caffeine temporarily raises cortisol. Avoid coffee before your blood draw.
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