Cortisol is often called the “stress hormone” because it helps the body respond to challenges. In short bursts, it’s useful – it keeps you alert, regulates blood sugar, and helps manage inflammation. But when cortisol stays high for too long, it can disrupt your metabolism and contribute to weight gain, especially around the midsection.
Dr. Corey Howard specializes in hormonal and weight management solutions at Howard Health & Wellness in Naples, Florida. He can identify cortisol imbalances and find the best treatment to support your long-term health.
The Impact of High Cortisol on the Body
When cortisol levels remain elevated for too long, they can disrupt many aspects of your health. Some of the most common effects include:
- Increased Fat Storage: High cortisol promotes fat accumulation, especially around the abdomen, and increases cravings for sugary or high-carb foods.
- Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Cortisol helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, but excessive levels can make it hard to fall or stay asleep.
- Slower Metabolism and Blood Sugar Imbalances: Chronically high cortisol can lead to insulin resistance, making it more difficult for the body to manage blood sugar and convert food into energy.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Cortisol influences other hormones like testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones, potentially leading to mood swings, weight fluctuations, and reduced libido.
- Increased Risk of Long-Term Health Issues: Persistent cortisol elevation is linked to high blood pressure, digestive problems, and a weakened immune system.
Managing Cortisol for Better Health
A few effective strategies for balancing cortisol include:
- Get Quality Sleep: Sticking to a consistent sleep schedule and limiting screen time before bed can help regulate cortisol rhythms.
- Try Stress-Reducing Activities: Meditation, deep breathing, and regular exercise can lower stress levels and prevent excessive cortisol production.
- Support Blood Sugar Stability: Eating protein-rich meals, avoiding excessive sugar, and spacing meals evenly throughout the day can help prevent cortisol-related spikes in blood sugar.
- Consider Hormone Therapy: In some cases, imbalances in estrogen, testosterone, or thyroid hormones can worsen cortisol-related symptoms. Dr. Corey Howard evaluates hormone levels and may recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for better balance.
- Optimize Weight Loss Strategies: Losing weight helps regulate cortisol by reducing fat stores that produce and store the hormone. A structured approach that includes medical weight management, nutrition guidance, and metabolic support may help lower cortisol naturally.
Managing Cortisol for Better Health
Chronic stress and high cortisol can take a toll on your health, but the right approach can help restore balance.
Dr. Corey Howard at Howard Health & Wellness in Naples, FL, offers personalized solutions for hormone health. Call 239-331-2285 to schedule a consultation.
