Cortisol: The Buzz Behind the “Stress Hormone”

Cortisol is gaining attention in popular health articles—and for good reason. Often referred to as the “stress hormone,” cortisol is a natural steroid hormone produced by your adrenal glands. But it’s not just about stress. Cortisol plays a key role in many of your body’s essential functions.

“Cortisol affects everything from your energy levels to your immune system,” says Dr. Sara Yap, Riverside Healthcare endocrinologist. “It helps regulate your metabolism, blood pressure, inflammation, and even your sleep-wake cycle.”

Cortisol levels naturally rise and fall throughout the day—highest in the morning to help you wake up and lowest at night to help you wind down. But when your body is under prolonged stress, those levels can remain elevated, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, poor sleep, mood changes, and frequent illness.

“People often hear the word ‘cortisol’ and associate it with something bad, but it’s really about balance,” the Yap explains. “The goal isn’t to eliminate cortisol—it’s to keep it working as it should.”

How to Support Healthy Cortisol Levels:

• Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Exercise Regularly: Moderate physical activity helps regulate cortisol.
• Manage Stress: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can lower cortisol spikes.
• Eat Balanced Meals: Include protein, healthy fats, and fiber to support stable blood sugar, which affects cortisol.
• Stay Connected: Social support and healthy relationships reduce stress.

“Supporting cortisol health is really about supporting whole-body wellness,” says Yap.

If you're experiencing symptoms like ongoing fatigue, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping, it could be worth discussing cortisol with your primary care provider. Find a primary care provider that fits your needs at myrhc.net/acceptingnew.

For more information about endocrinology at Riverside click here.