According to Google Trends, the amount of users searching for the phrase “high cortisol” has significantly increased as we learn more about cortisol and how varied levels affect our health.
According to Web MD, cortisol is “the body’s major stress hormone, acting on specific parts of the brain to control mood, motivation, and fear.”
When you have too much cortisol, you can develop Cushing’s syndrome, which includes symptoms like weight gain, puffy face, tiredness, diminished sex drive, and mood changes.
However, one health expert claims that you can reduce your cortisol levels with a few easy lifestyle adjustments.
How to lower cortisol levels?
Dr. Emily Prpa, a nutritionist, explains how to modulate cortisol levels, particularly for stress reduction.
“Stress affects not only our emotional state, but also the health of our intestines. “When stress levels rise, our gut bacteria, the unsung heroes of digestion, can suffer,” she said.
She explained that cortisol activates our fight-or-flight response, which causes blood to flow away from the gut. As a result, our digestive system’s natural rhythm is disrupted, digestion slows, and inflammation occurs.
However, Dr. Prpa suggests that combining relaxation and self-care strategies can lower cortisol levels, allowing our stomach to reset and activate our parasympathetic autonomic nerve system, which aids in relaxation.
Dr. Prpa also emphasised the importance of supporting the gut microbiome, which includes eating fruits, vegetables, and healthy grains.
The most effective approaches for relaxation and self-care
Take a break and do something you enjoy, like reading, taking a bath, watching a movie, playing with your pet, or trying a new cuisine.
Try to actively relax, with activities such as walking, yoga, pilates or light stretching.
Take deep breaths for a few minutes. Maintain a comfortable posture with your shoulders down and your hand on your tummy; it should rise as you inhale and fall as you exhale.
Get creative by painting, drawing, playing an instrument, or even cooking. Don’t stress about the outcome; instead, enjoy the process.
Take a nature stroll if you can, take your time, and pay attention to the trees, plants, and animals you come across.
Imagine yourself in a place where you feel peaceful.
Listen to your favorite songs.
Turn off your cell phone for an hour.
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