What Is Cortisol?
Cortisol is the body's main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands. It mobilizes energy, modulates immunity, and influences brain function. Healthy daily rhythms are essential; chronically elevated cortisol is associated with health risks.
Cortisol is the body's main stress hormone, with effects on energy, immunity, sleep, and brain function. Learn how it works and what shifts its daily rhythm.
Key takeaways
- Cortisol follows a daily rhythm - high in morning, low at night.
- Acute spikes are normal and useful.
- Chronically high cortisol harms brain and body.
- Sleep, exercise, and stress reduction regulate it.
Detailed Explanation
Cortisol normally peaks in the early morning and declines through the day. Acute stressors briefly raise it, after which it should return to baseline. Chronic stress disrupts this rhythm and prolongs elevation, contributing to sleep problems, anxiety, weight changes, and impaired memory.
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- Editorial Standards - How our content is researched and reviewed
Sources
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
- American Psychological Association - APA
- Harvard Health Publishing - Harvard Medical School
- Cleveland Clinic - Health Library - Cleveland Clinic
- Mayo Clinic - Diseases & Conditions - Mayo Clinic
Written by Beiing Editorial Team · Editorially reviewed by Research Desk · Published · Last reviewed . Editorial and research review by Beiing writers and researchers. This is not medical or clinical review, and no clinician signs off on our content.
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