Cortisol plays a key role in regulating your metabolism, immune system and stress response.
It’s the hormone produced by your adrenal gland that wakes you up in the morning and gets you going for the day. But too much cortisol can play havoc with your mood and mental health, especially if you’re feeling stressed.
Cortisol affects the release of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that regulate mood, such as serotonin and dopamine. Too much cortisol interferes with the normal
balance of these neurotransmitters, which can lead to feeling irritable, nervous and generally overwhelmed.
Being a key player in regulating the sleep/wake cycle, excessive cortisol can also interfere with sleep. Cortisol levels are naturally highest in the morning and lowest
at night. When cortisol levels are constantly high, it can interfere with normal sleep patterns such as falling asleep, staying asleep, and feeling rested in the morning.
The good news is that there are some simple lifestyle hacks to help lower cortisol levels:
• Get regular exercise because it reduces levels of stress hormones and stimulates production of endorphins (the feel good hormone!)
• Prioritise your sleep because sleep deprivation can cause the body to release more cortisol during the day
• Try activities that promote calm like yoga, meditation or deep breathing
• Take saffron and ashwagandha, both scientifically researched to support a calm mood and healthy
“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Maecenas porttitor aliquam dolor, a rhoncus nulla porta eget Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Maecenas porttitor aliquam dolor, a rhoncus nulla porta eget”
Although you may not fully avoid all invaders, you can make diet and lifestyle changes to support all-year-round immune system health. This can be done by:
Vitamin D is a key nutrient for your immune system. Once thought as the vitamin for strong bones, vitamin D actually does a lot more for your body - including supporting your immune system. Studies have shown that vitamin D is necessary for healthy functioning of the immune system, as well as supporting natural immune defences. It is essential for everyday health and wellbeing.
Vitamin D deficiency is common in the winter months due to the lack of sunshine, while many people cover up with sunblock and avoid the sun in the middle of the day during summer due to New Zealand’s harsh sun. This means it’s unlikely your vitamin D levels are restored and it is a good idea to consider a vitamin D supplement. Adequate levels of vitamin D, as well as zinc and vitamin C, are crucially important for a healthy immune system.
Taking control of cortisol: the stress hormone
Cortisol plays a key role in regulating your metabolism, immune system and stress response. It’s the hormone produced by your adrenal gland that wakes you up in themorning and gets you going for the day.
