5 Facts about the Cortisol Hormone You Must Read

The hormone cortisol may not be as widely known as the hormone adrenaline. In fact, the two types of hormones are related to each other and have many functions for the body to function optimally.

The hormone cortisol or also widely known as the stress hormone, because this hormone will be produced more when the body experiences stress, both physically and emotionally.

Understanding the Facts About Cortisol Hormon

There are several facts about the hormone cortisol that are important to know, including the following:

  • 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 which can be affected by infectious conditions, injury, strenuous activity, as well as physical and emotional stress. Not only that, the hormone cortisol also helps maintain normal blood pressure, while controlling blood sugar levels by releasing insulin.

  • The release of the hormone cortisol is triggered by the body's alarm

    When you feel threatened, a part of your brain will set off your body's alarm. This will then trigger the adrenal glands which are above the kidneys to secrete the hormone adrenaline, along with the hormone cortisol. The adrenaline hormone will increase the heart rate, while the stress hormone cortisol will increase the 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 levels of the hormone cortisol reach a peak at 8 am and will continue to decline. Cortisol levels are lowest at bedtime. However, the opposite can happen to people who work at night and sleep in the morning as a routine.

  • Get Mtrigger weight gain

    According to research, disturbances in the production of the hormone cortisol under normal conditions can increase body weight and affect the body's fat storage area. Other studies have shown that fat from excess food intake will be stored in the stomach compared to the waist or other areas of the body. This will increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.

  • Kadar kortisol can be identified through a blood test

    Measurement of the level of the hormone cortisol is done through a blood test. This is done if a problem with the adrenal glands is suspected because the hormone cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands. Meanwhile, the level of the hormone cortisol can also be checked to find out if there is a problem with the pituitary gland. It is characterized by high levels of the hormone cortisol and the adrenal glands. Given the production of the hormone cortisol is different from time to time, the test is usually done depending on the need.

There are various functions of the hormone cortisol that are important for the body. It is important to control emotional levels, so that the performance of the hormone cortisol in the body remains optimal. Consult a doctor if you suspect a health problem due to an increase or decrease in the hormone cortisol.