What is cortisol and how to deal with it?

What is cortisol and what are its effects?

Cortisol is one of the hormones included in the group of steroid compounds, whose production takes place within the adrenal glands. The processes of synthesis and secretion are dependent on another hormonal compound called ACTH, associated with the pituitary gland. It allows us to assume that the total level of cortisol is directly dependent on the adrenocorticotropic hormone, which is important for diagnostics.

The role of cortisol is to modulate the glucose levels, especially in stressful situations or when performing an intensive physical work. Increased levels of physical activity and excessive stress require the body to provide an additional amount of energy in order to provide it with optimal functioning capabilities and cover the resulting losses. In addition, it strengthens the properties of adrenaline or norepinephrine, which makes the body much better able to cope with increasing levels of stress. Other effects of cortisol include an intensification of gastric juice production and an increased heart rate.

What is cortisol and what are its negative effects?

An increase of cortisol levels occurs during a physical effort or during a prolonged exposure to factors which are commonly referred to as stressors (e.g. extreme temperature, high pressure, insufficient sleep). The persistently high concentration levels of cortisol combined with its action in the body prove to be extremely unfavorable, which in the long term can cause several dangerous consequences.

The effects of increased cortisol levels include:

• increase in protein breakdown and muscle mass loss,
• intensification of gluconeogenesis and persistence of high blood sugar levels, which may promote increased body fat accumulation and obesity development,
• impairment of electrolyte metabolism, which is the result of abnormal sodium retention and potassium excretion,
• reduction in the absorption and use of calcium and phosphorus, which can lead to a marked weakening of bone condition and abnormal muscle function
• deterioration of the immune system

What is cortisol and how to reduce its levels?

Is there a way to counteract high levels of cortisol? There are two primary methods: to ensure an optimal regeneration of the body after exhausting workouts and to avoid stressful situations. This sounds very logical; in practice it turns out to be much more difficult to do. It is worth knowing, however, that some dietary supplements may be helpful both for regeneration and for reducing excessive stress levels.

Ashwagandha KSM-66 Sport Edition from Olimp Sport Nutrition - a long-term manufacturer of supplements for active people - will turn out to be a good choice. The product allows you to enrich your daily diet with high quality standardized extract from the Ashwagandha root, which is a source of vitanolids. The supplement is available in the form of easy to swallow capsules.

Ashwagandha has long been used as a plant-based and completely safe substance for maintaining optimal vitality. According to many experts, it can help to alleviate signs of over-exposure to stress, neutralise the consequences of psychophysical fatigue and help maintain well-being.