5 Must-Read Hormone Cortisol Facts

The hormone cortisol may be less known than the hormone adrenaline. In fact, the two types of hormones are related to one another and have a function that is not small for the body to function optimally. The hormone cortisol or also widely known as stress hormone, because this hormone will be produced more when the body is experiencing stress, both physically and emotionally.

Understanding the Facts About the Hormone Cortisol

There are several facts about the cortisol hormone that are important to know, including the following:
  • The hormone cortisol provides energy and controls stress

  • The hormone cortisol plays a role in the use of sugar or glucose and fat in the body's metabolism to provide energy. The hormone cortisol also functions to control stress that can be affected by conditions of infection, injury, strenuous activity, and physical and emotional stress. Not only that, the hormone cortisol also helps maintain normal blood pressure, while controlling blood sugar levels by releasing insulin.
  • Cortisol hormone release is triggered by a body alarm

  • When feeling threatened, then part of the brain will turn on the body's alarm. This will then trigger the adrenal glands above the kidneys to release the hormone adrenaline, this along with the hormone cortisol. The hormone adrenaline increases heart rate, while the hormone cortisol, known as the stress hormone, increases sugar in the bloodstream, so the brain can work more effectively.
  • The highest levels of the hormone cortisol in the morning

  • Under normal conditions, the highest cortisol hormone levels reach a peak at 8 am and will decrease further. The lowest cortisol hormone level is just before going to sleep. However, the opposite can happen to people who work at night and sleep in the morning as a routine.
  • Can trigger weight gain

  • According to research, interference with the release of the hormone cortisol in normal conditions can increase body weight while affecting the body's fat storage. Other research shows, fat from excess food intake will be stored in the abdomen compared to the waist or other body areas. This will increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
  • Cortisol levels can be determined through a blood test

  • Measurement of cortisol hormone level is done through a blood test. This is done if a problem with the adrenal gland is suspected given the hormone cortisol is produced by the adrenal gland. Meanwhile, examination of the level of the hormone cortisol can also be done to find out any problems with the pituitary gland. This is characterized by high levels of the hormone cortisol and adrenal glands. Since the production of the hormone cortisol is different every time, the test is usually done depending on needs.
There are various functions of the hormone cortisol which are important for the body. It is important to control the level of emotions, so that the performance of the hormone cortisol in the body remains optimal. Consult a doctor if you suspect health problems due to an increase or decrease in the hormone cortisol.

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