Cortisol hormone is released when a person is under stress, it is also known as stress hormone. The level of cortisol is high in the morning and the level decreases throughout the day. The level of cortisol hormone below or above the normal range is a cause of various health problems.

Low cortisol level rarely occurs and so we shall discuss here the symptoms of high cortisol level and the home remedies to manage high cortisol.

Why is high level of cortisol a concern?

When cortisol hormone is too high for a long period of time it causes health problems such as –

• Weight gain
• Problem in the bones
• Decreased sex drive
• High blood pressure
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Type 2 diabetes
• Tiredness
• Weak immune system

Ways to reduce cortisol level

Eating certain foods or trying the different ways does not have an instant effect on cortisol level. But incorporating it in your daily regime decreases the inflammation and regulates the release of cortisol hormones.

Given below are few activities and foods that can help slow the release of cortisol hormone.

Natural ways to decrease cortisol level

Sleep well

Taking a good sleep is effective to reduce the level of cortisol. People with sleep disturbance or those working in night shift have high cortisol level. If you are having disturbed sleep, it is time to try various measures that can make you sleep well.

Engage yourself in light physical activities

Light form of physical activity reduces cortisol hormone, improves sleep quality and overall health.

Enjoy and laugh

Endorphin hormone is released when you laugh. The hormone suppresses the cortisol hormone and promotes feeling of well-being.

Indulge into activities that you enjoy

If you love playing with pets or you enjoy painting, do it. Engaging yourself in activities that you enjoy can lower the cortisol level. Pet therapy has shown good results in reducing stress or cortisol hormone level.

Supplements

Ashwagandha is an ayurvedic medicine that may help you manage stress.

Foods that can lower the cortisol level

Whole grains

The polyphenols and high fibre is good for gut health and also manage stress level.

Dark chocolate

The high flavonoids in dark chocolates lowers the release of cortisol hormones.

Green tea

L-theanine in green tea is known to reduce stress.

Healthy fats

Healthy fats are good for overall health and well-being of a person. Omega-3 fatty acids are good for brain health and reduces the cortisol level.

Fruits and vegetables

Being rich in anti-oxidants and polyphenols, fresh fruits and vegetables can lower the cortisol level.

Drinking enough water

Less water consumption increases the cortisol level. Hence keeping yourself hydrated reduces stress.

Papaya

Papaya is high in vitamin C and this increases the ability to handle stress.

Olive oil

Oleuropein in olive oil may reduce the cortisol level.

Probiotic foods

Probiotic rich foods such as yogurt, kimchi, etc improve digestion, regulates mood and reduces stress.

Conclusion

High level of cortisol affects the mental and physical health of an individual leading to serious conditions. So, managing the cortisol level is critical in maintaining the overall health.