Is Cortisol Good or Bad for Your Health?
Discover the impact of cortisol on health—when it's beneficial and when it becomes harmful.
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Cortisol, often termed the 'stress hormone', is essential as it manages various bodily functions like metabolism and immune response. In moderation, it's beneficial for handling acute stress and maintaining homeostasis. However, excessive cortisol levels due to chronic stress can lead to issues such as anxiety, hypertension, and weight gain. To maintain balance, engage in regular exercise, practice mindfulness, and ensure adequate sleep. Understanding its dual nature can help optimize health and well-being.
FAQs & Answers
- What is cortisol and its role in the body? Cortisol, known as the 'stress hormone', helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and other essential bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in managing stress and maintaining homeostasis.
- How does high cortisol levels affect health? Excessive cortisol levels, often due to chronic stress, can lead to various health issues such as anxiety, hypertension, weight gain, and weakened immune function.
- What can help lower cortisol levels? Engaging in regular exercise, practicing mindfulness techniques, and ensuring adequate sleep are effective ways to help maintain balanced cortisol levels.
- Is cortisol always harmful? No, cortisol is not always harmful. In moderation, it is essential for managing stress and various bodily functions. It becomes problematic only when levels are consistently elevated due to chronic stress.