We hear a lot about cortisol, and almost all of it is bad.
But cortisol isn't always bad.
In fact, this hormone—frequently called our “fight or flight” hormone—boosts our awareness in ways that can be lifesaving. For example, if you need to zig or zag in traffic because of the sudden moves of the cars around you, cortisol is part of your early warning system. Or, if you need to watch your step when hiking a new trail, or just want to wake up with a sense of energy and well-being, cortisol—produced by your adrenal glands—is definitely your friend.
However, too much of anything can get to be tiresome. Balanced cortisol levels are best. With that in mind, here are some things you can do.
Make Your Food and Drink Your Allies, Not Your Frenemies
For example, caffeine and alcohol, two dietary chemicals we may think provide incredible coping powers, are two of the biggest culprits for cortisol craziness. They either lift you up faster and further than you need, or bring you down and create more stress in the process. The same is true for refined carbs and sugars; these ‘comfort food’ ingredients simply cause more discomfort and can keep your cortisol levels in a constant state of agitation.
Manage Your Stress
That’s easy to say, but what does it look like? Well, consider giving yourself permission to stay away from social media and constant news updates for starters. News headlines are, by design, made to create a sense of urgency, and the addictive nature of social media feeds draws more concentration and peace of mind than it will ever return. Distancing yourself from current events for a few days can help you feel more balanced overall. Also, if possible, plan on some intentional time for meditation, prayer, or creative work that connects you to things much more rewarding and lasting than the day’s events.
Exercise and Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Getting more exercise doesn’t have to mean going to the gym extra early every morning—unless you want it to. Simply taking a walk around the block or your office park at lunchtime can help you keep things in perspective and help keep cortisol in its proper place. Plus, you’ll be doing your fitness a favor while your mind gets a break, too.
Consider Supplemental Support
Cortisol Rescue† helps replenish the nutrients that stress^ depletes to recharge your resilience.* Here’s a quick look at this all-star nutrient lineup:
DHEA: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is naturally produced by your adrenal glands, and helps keep cortisol levels in balance.† But since our own levels of DHEA can vary greatly, supplementing can deliver a consistent source. In fact, supplemental DHEA has been shown to enhance daily energy, focus, libido, and vitality—so it’s great to have in a daily regimen.*
Bioactive B Vitamins: B vitamins are associated with a lot of things, including healthy blood sugar levels and metabolism, a positive mood, and daily energy.*† But, there can be challenges in getting the full value of B vitamins, even from supplements. That’s because some people have a difficult time converting common forms of B vitamins into the active form the body requires. Bioactive B vitamins are best, because they are already in an active form and require no conversion by the liver before they can be truly useful.
Vitamin C: Aside from its well-known immune benefits, vitamin C is critical for your adrenal glands to stay in top form. But during times of occasional stress, vitamin C levels are quickly used up to contend with any ‘red alert’ signals your system may be sending. Getting a consistent amount of this vitamin is critical for supporting healthy cortisol levels.*†
You Can Maintain Healthy Cortisol Levels*†
Many of the best things in life require a healthy balance. Cortisol levels are just one example, but one that has far-reaching effects. After all, cortisol balance is critical for supporting daily energy, healthy weight management††, healthy blood sugar balance†, and healthy immune function. So it’s an extremely important part of daily life and long term health.*
Cutting what you don’t need from your life, including unhealthy foods and unnecessary sources of stress, and adding necessary time, perspective, and exercise, are absolute musts for maintaining healthy cortisol levels. And for those times when you need an extra partner in your efforts, consider Cortisol Rescue your key to maintaining a balanced, vibrant, and healthy life.*†