How Cortisol affects your body

When we’re stressed, cortisol is what allows us to regulate our stress responses. When we are in a state of fight or flight the body releases adrenaline and shortly after cortisol kicks in. The liver then releases glucose, so the body can gain that source of energy to deal with the stress.  

Stress is not the issue as sometimes stress can be good for us. It is when we have far too many periods of stress which can then impact our health due to the raised cortisol levels. This can then cause weight gain, muscle weakness, mood swings and much more.  

There is much discussion about the different things you could do to lower your stress levels and thereby lower the production of cortisol, things such as a good night’s sleep and getting proper rest. Exercise as well as practicing deep breathing all help to kick start the rest and digest system which in turn lower cortisol.  

Nourishing your body is important as high levels of sugar, alcohol, caffeine, and processed food can deprive the body of the nutrients it needs to function well.  

The types of foods to help you counteract cortisol are Avocado, Banana, Blueberries, Spinach, Broccoli, Sweet potatoes, Eggs, Garlic, Salmon, Shellfish, Walnuts, Chia seeds and Parsley are some of the good foods that can work magic.