High cortisol symptoms: What to watch for and how to bring them down
You know that jittery, wired, can’t-sleep, snack-on-everything-in-sight feeling? It might not just be ‘life’… It could be your cortisol levels doing the most. Cortisol, AKA the stress hormone, plays a vital role in our bodies. But too much of it? That’s when things go pear-shaped faster than a dodgy avo.
Let’s unpack the symptoms of high cortisol, what causes it, and how to dial it back without selling your soul to a yoga retreat in the mountains.
First, what is cortisol, and why should you care
Cortisol is produced by your adrenal glands and helps regulate your metabolism, immune response, and, you guessed it, stress. It’s meant to rise when you’re facing a challenge (like rush-hour traffic or your in-laws visiting), then drop once the stressor disappears.
But thanks to modern life, we’re bombarded with stressors 24/7, and our cortisol levels often stay elevated for way too long. Enter the chaos.
Common symptoms of high cortisol levels
Here’s how your body waves the red flag:
Physical symptoms
You might notice stubborn weight gain, especially around your tummy. Fatigue becomes your bestie, often paired with the irony of not being able to sleep. Your blood pressure might creep up, your immune system takes a knock, and your muscles feel weaker than a Monday morning. Your skin may also rebel with acne or other issues, and headaches become more frequent than you’d like.
Mental and emotional symptoms
Mentally, high cortisol can feel like emotional whiplash. Anxiety or even panic attacks can make surprise appearances. You might feel a deep, persistent low mood or even dip into depression. Every little thing starts to get on your nerves, and trying to focus feels like trying to herd cats. Your memory might also start to play hide-and-seek.
Behavioural symptoms
Behaviourally, your snack drawer starts to overflow with sugary or salty goodies thanks to intense cravings. You can’t get through the day without that extra coffee (or 5), and suddenly, hanging out with people feels exhausting. The worst part? That overwhelming, constant sense that you’re barely holding it all together.
If these sound familiar, you might be dealing with a cortisol imbalance.
What causes high cortisol levels
High cortisol can be triggered by a bunch of things, like chronic stress (yep, that annoying boss counts), poor sleep habits, or even over-exercising, because more isn’t always better. Too much caffeine can also mess with your stress hormone, and there are medical culprits like Cushing’s syndrome or corticosteroid medications. Basically, it’s like your body’s been stuck in traffic for weeks and just keeps hooting.
How to lower cortisol and feel more like yourself again
Good news: You can bring cortisol levels back down without becoming a zen monk. Here’s how:
Get quality sleep
Stick to a regular sleep schedule, make your bedroom a cool, dark, screen-free sanctuary, and resist the urge to scroll TikTok until 02:00.
Eat smart
Focus on balanced meals that include protein, fibre, and healthy fats. Ditch the sugary, processed goodies that spike your blood sugar (and then your cortisol).
Move your body, but not too much
Yes, exercise helps… But don’t overdo it. Swap your daily HIIT for a gentle walk, a Pilates session, or a chilled swim.
Try mindfulness techniques
From deep breathing to meditation to jotting down what you’re grateful for, these small moments of zen actually help regulate cortisol.
Cut down on caffeine
Caffeine is a sneaky stressor. Try switching to rooibos, herbal tea, or the occasional glass of water.
Laugh more and stress less
It’s hard to feel stressed when you’re laughing. Watch something funny, catch up with a mate, or snuggle your pet. Laughter literally lowers cortisol.
How King Price can help protect your peace
While we can’t directly lower your cortisol levels, we can help reduce life’s stress with our super simple, super affordable insurance. Whether you need car, home, portable possessions, or business insurance, we’ve got your back.
That’s less admin, more peace of mind, and 1 less thing to worry about. Sounds like a royal win.
Summary
High cortisol can sneak up and wreak havoc on your body and mind. But by spotting the signs and making a few tweaks to your daily habits, you can reclaim your calm (and your jeans).
Need a little extra support navigating life’s curveballs? Get cover with King Price and let us take some weight off your shoulders. For a commitment-free quote, click here or pop a WhatsApp to 0860 50 50 50 today.
FAQs
Q: Can high cortisol cause weight gain?
A: Yes, especially around your belly. Elevated cortisol messes with your metabolism and increases appetite.
Q: How long does it take to reduce high cortisol?
A: With lifestyle changes, it can take a few weeks to a few months to see improvement.
Q: Can you test for high cortisol levels?
A: Yes, through blood, saliva or urine tests recommended by a healthcare provider.
Q: Is high cortisol dangerous?
A: Over time, yes. It can lead to heart issues, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
Q: Do supplements help lower cortisol?
A: Some adaptogens like ashwagandha or rhodiola may help, but always check with your doctor first.