About Cortisol
Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, playing a crucial role in the body's stress response and regulation of a wide range of processes throughout the body including metabolism and immune response. It is often referred to as the 'stress hormone' because its levels increase in response to stress.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
Not specified
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
{'high': 'Elevated levels may indicate chronic stress, potentially leading to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and anxiety disorders.', 'low': 'Low levels may be associated with Addison's disease, causing fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure.'}
Symptoms
High
May include weight gain, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, mood swings, and fatigue.
Low
Can include fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- 1. Stalder, T., Kirschbaum, C., Kudielka, B. M., Adam, E. K., Pruessner, J. C., Wüst, S., ... & Miller, R. (2016). Assessment of the cortisol awakening response: Expert consensus guidelines. *Psychoneuroendocrinology*, 63, 414-432.
- 2. Russell, G., Lightman, S. (2019). The human stress response. *Nature Reviews Endocrinology*, 15(9), 525-534.
- 3. Chrousos, G. P. (2020). Stress and disorders of the stress system. *Nature Reviews Endocrinology*, 16(12), 669-683.
- 4. Sapolsky, R. M., Romero, L. M., Munck, A. U. (2020). How do glucocorticoids influence stress responses? Integrating permissive, suppressive, stimulatory, and preparative actions. *Endocrine Reviews*, 21(1), 55-89.
- 5. Herman, J. P., McKlveen, J. M., Ghosal, S., Kopp, B., Wulsin, A., Makinson, R., ... & Myers, B. (2016). Regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical stress response. *Comprehensive Physiology*, 6(2), 603-621.