The Importance Of Testing Cortisol Levels

Cortisol is a hormone made by the adrenal glands and plays a vital role in a variety of different bodily functions, most famously the fight or flight response. When we believe we’re in danger, for example as you realize you’re about to be involved in a car accident, our brains release a potent chemical, known as ACTH, which halts any non-essential physical responses. When this chemical shuts down, we gain a burst of strength, often referred to as an adrenaline rush, which allows us to deal with the imminent threat.

Other critical responses supported by cortisol include those in the nervous, digestive, immune, skeletal, and circulatory systems. You may have noticed as you’ve aged that it’s more challenging to lose weight or gain muscle despite the same lifestyle and exercise routines. This may be a result of working out during the time when your cortisol levels are not in its healthy state.

Common symptoms of cortisol imbalances include the following:

  1. Cortisol is also a hormone that stores fat, so working out when your cortisol levels are high makes it even harder to burn fat or build muscle. It may also result to low energy and lack of sleep that a person can’t sustain a workout routine at the level they’ve previously been able to.
  2. Those that are unusually anxious or have have the tendency to overreact in response to normal situations may have an excess cortisol level. Your ability to handle stress is directly impacted by it, and depression and anxiety treatments can be supported by understanding cortisol levels.
  3. If your energy levels have dropped dramatically for no apparent reason, you may notice that your body can’t handle (or finish) all of your errands in the day. As with many symptoms, low energy can be caused by a multitude of factors but should be observed for patterns nonetheless. As an example, feeling tired when you’ve haven’t done so much yet may be a result of your dietary habits but could be caused by very low cortisol levels.
  4. In modern life, sleep is so important but more difficult to come by than ever with constant communication, updates, smartphones, and technology. Those struggling to fall asleep may do so for any number of reasons but should consider using a cortisol saliva test kit if other symptoms coincide with the inability to sleep.

It is essential to know your cortisol levels for personal health and well-being, and cortisol saliva test kits can show your cortisol levels at the comforts of your home.

How Do I Prepare For And Get Tested

It’s generally true that cortisol levels taper down as the day goes on, so many medical professionals will recommend testing in the morning hours. Fasting is not usually required, but certain medications may need to be stopped, though it’s imperative only to stop medicines in consultation with your doctor. Traditional tests include taking blood, but modern saliva tests are far easier, cheaper, and more convenient.