What is Cortisol
Posted on November 17th, 2005 by garyPosted in Diet, Exercise
If you’ve looked into supplements for weight control, then you’ve probably heard the term Cortisol, but not sure what it is or what it does. Cortisol is part of the Cortisone hormone that is secreted by the adrenal cortex. The medical terms it is known as an adredalcortical hormone, a glucatroid. It’s more commonly known a hydrocortisone or cortisone. Cortisol is important for weight loss for two reasons. First Cortisol will reduce the hormones that cause tissue or muscle growth. Secondly Cortisol has been shown to affect your appetite. Studies also show it can have a negative effect on mood, bone health, sex drive, performance and energy levels.
Throughout the day your Cortisol levels will fluctuate. This is a perfectly normal function for your body. However prolonged or continued high Cortisol levels can lead to health problems, some more serious than others. As stated before it will stop the growth and in some cases loss of muscle mass, and affect your appetite. You may also suffer mood swings, feel tired from a lack of energy. Many athletes who train at a very high energy level have Cortisol issues due to low carbohydrate levels. The most effective way to have your Cortisol levels tested is with a hormone test from a doctor.
There are now treatments on the market that can help you regulate Cortisol production. One of the most popular is Relacore. It has also been shown that Vitamin B has a positive effect on regulating Cortisol levels, as do ginseng, rhiodiola and ashwaganda. If you don’t want to take supplements make sure you are getting enough carbohydrates, and you are giving your body enough rest at night and between periods of high physical exertion like sports or exercise. You can also try stress reducing techniques like yoga or other relaxing activities.
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