Oxidized Cholesterol Strategy-Does magnesium lower cortisol?
by fiona basil (2021-08-26)
Cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone, is a steroid hormone that is formed in the adrenal glands. It can help control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, and help reduce inflammation. It has a direct connection to your body's stress response, and in terms of weight loss, it's very important.
Cortisol is released when you are under stress. If you are under constant stress, cortisol is continually released in your body. Producing too much can destroy muscle, have a negative effect on metabolism, and lead to belly fat. Too much cortisol in your body may be the reason you are not losing weight, despite all your hard work.
Symptoms of high cortisol levels
• Humor changes
• Anger, anxiety, depression
• Constant fatigue
• Frequent headaches
• Unexplained weight gain
• Digestive problems
• Frequent urination, constipation, or diarrhea
• Trouble sleeping
• Memory loss
• Swelling in the face, hands, or feet
• Menstrual abnormalities
• Low libido
• Back pain
• Decreased concentration
How to Naturally Lower Cortisol Levels
If the scale isn't moving and these symptoms sound familiar, your body may be making too much cortisol. Fortunately, there are several natural and healthy ways to lower your cortisol levels in order to get your body back on track.
1. Relax
The number one way to lower cortisol levels is to relax. That could mean taking a vacation, getting away for a weekend, or just taking a walk in the park once a day. Whatever is stressing you out, find a way to control it. If you are in a stressful relationship, it may be time to end it. If it's your job that is giving you anxiety, it may be time to find a new one. A simpler solution, such as regular reading, yoga, or an evening bubble bath, could also do the trick. Find what works for you and make room for it.
2. Exercise
Research has shown that regular exercise - 30 to 60 minutes most days of the week - is one of the best ways to manage stress, balance hormones, and sleep better. Also, it can help improve normal metabolic functions, such as balancing blood sugar levels. Be careful not to overdo exercise. Whether it's yoga, hiking, running, boxing, or lifting weights, find an exercise routine that you enjoy and exercise several times a week to stay healthy and keep your hormones balanced.
3. Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential to control cortisol production. People who develop high levels of cortisol may end up feeling stuck and anxious at night, and then fatigued during the day. If you have trouble sleeping, try using essential oils to promote relaxation before bed. Some of the best essential oils for a better night's sleep are lavender, Roman chamomile, and bergamot.
4. Try an anti-inflammatory diet
Poorly managed blood sugar levels can contribute to high cortisol levels and other hormonal imbalances. An anti-inflammatory diet low in processed foods and high in antioxidants can help balance your hormones, control your cravings, and put you on the right track to lose weight. Some of the best foods for lowering cortisol and stabilizing blood sugar levels include fruits and vegetables, coconut or olive oil, nuts, seeds, lean proteins, and probiotic foods.
5. Avoid stimulants
If you think you may have high levels of cortisol, avoid stimulants like coffee, energy drinks, cigarettes, and anything else that contains caffeine. Caffeine not only affects cortisol levels, it also affects adrenaline, adenosine, and dopamine levels. A constant supply of caffeine in your body will increase the amount of cortisol and will disturb your hormone levels.
CCholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood. Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but high levels of cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease. With high cholesterol, you can develop fatty deposits in your blood vessels. Eventually, these deposits grow, making it difficult for enough blood to flow through your arteries. Sometimes, those deposits can break suddenly and form a clot that causes a heart attack or stroke. High cholesterol can be inherited, but it's often the result of unhealthy lifestyle choices, which make it preventable and treatable. A healthy diet, regular exercise and sometimes medication can help reduce high cholesterol Oxidized Cholesterol Strategy
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