Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands and released in response to stress. It plays an important role in regulating numerous bodily functions, including blood sugar levels. When cortisol levels rise, blood sugar levels typically rise as well.
What Is Cortisol?
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, two small glands located on top of the kidneys. It is released in response to stress or low blood sugar levels. Cortisol is known as the “fight or flight” hormone because it helps the body to respond to stress, preparing it for a fight or flight response.
Cortisol also helps to regulate many other bodily functions, including metabolism, blood pressure, and immune system responses. It also helps to regulate blood sugar levels, playing an important role in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
How Does Cortisol Affect Blood Sugar?
Cortisol is involved in the regulation of blood sugar levels in two ways. First, cortisol helps to break down glycogen, the storage form of glucose, into glucose molecules. This helps to release glucose into the bloodstream when blood sugar levels drop too low.
Second, cortisol helps to block the action of insulin, the hormone that helps cells take up glucose from the bloodstream. When cortisol levels are high, insulin is blocked, which helps to keep more glucose in the bloodstream.
What Happens When Cortisol Levels Are Too High?
When cortisol levels are too high, blood sugar levels can rise too high. High cortisol levels can also cause other problems, such as weight gain, fatigue, and high blood pressure. If cortisol levels remain high for extended periods of time, it can lead to more serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.
How Can I Lower My Cortisol Levels?
There are several ways to lower cortisol levels. Regular exercise, managing stress levels, and getting enough sleep can all help. Eating a healthy diet, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and taking natural supplements can also help to lower cortisol levels.
It is important to talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your cortisol levels. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or medications to help lower your cortisol levels and keep your blood sugar levels in a healthy range.