Cortisol and Stress

Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the adrenal gland that sits on top of each kidney. Although it is secreted into the bloodstream normally during the day, it is in times of stress that it pumps out heavily and provides the body with energy to run away or fight with a stressor. When the body continues to secrete continuous amounts of cortisol, various organs can become damaged and the body may become obese. Cortisol interferes with the blood sugar and the way fat is stored. Continuous interference with the body's fat stores and blood sugar can also cause diabetes type ll, which is why stress and diet are linked to this condition.

Under normal conditions, the adrenal glands supply cortisol into the bloodstream to support positive changes that regulate the body during a 24 hour cycle. Higher concentrations are found in the morning, with the lowest levels noted in the evening. Cortisol is responsible for the:

• Regulation of blood pressure
• Regulation of blood sugar via insulin
• A decrease in the inflammatory response
• Boosts the immune system

When a Major Stressor Occurs, Cortisol Creates "Fight or Flight" Response

• Cortisol is pumped into the bloodstream from a fear response and causes:
• An increase in blood pressure and heart rate
• A temporary boost of energy that decreases the effects of insulin on blood sugar
• Energy to quickly run away for the stressor or stand and fight

Cortisol is released in the response to small or larger stressors. When acute stress has subsided, the body experiences a relaxation response that restores the body back to its normal functioning level. Unfortunately, when a person is experiencing chronic stress, their body remains on "high alert" and cortisol is pumped into the body continuously. The effects of cortisol on the body may be serious.

Unfortunately, for many people in today's hectic and busy world, chronic stress promotes the production of cortisol on a continuous basis that causes unhealthy responses over a period of time. Chronic stress promotes many chronic diseases and conditions including:

• High Blood Pressure
• Insulin Resistance in the Body
• Weight Gain and Fat Storage
• Heart Disease
• Insomnia and Sleep Disorders
• Depression and Mood Disorders
• Memory Impairment
• Indigestion and Ulcer Disease
• Skin Disorders and Disease
• Stress Related Disease and Conditions

Chronic stress causes blood sugar to be redirected and the result is increased fat storage in the abdomen, muscles, and upper body and causes obesity. Overtime, insulin becomes resistant to blood sugar and the pancreas works harder to produce more insulin to convert blood sugar into energy. Often, diabetes develops from this insulin resistance and the pancreas begins to wear out the ability to produce insulin.

You may not be able to change the stress in your life, but you can change the way you react to it. Simple breathing techniques, Yoga exercises, eating a healthy diet, and seeking professional counseling when you feel overwhelmed are a few good coping mechanisms you can employ in your life's routine. The results of chronic stress can be reversed by returning the body back to the relaxation phase, and adopting a healthy outlook on emotional issues and responses. Managing stress can promote a healthy and longer life.