Beware of High Levels of Cortisol; The Body’s Stress Hormone

When we are in a stressful situation, our body prepares for this heightened experience by releasing a burst of cortisol as well as other adrenal hormones. This “fight or flight” response is important when it comes to surviving an emergency situation; the cortisol levels will lower when we are in a relaxed state. But when the stress is chronic and unrelenting, the response itself will become a threat to your body’s health. When the levels of cortisol are at an elevated state, your body’s energy dives into handling the stressor instead of regulating the other bodily functions, for example, the digestive and immune systems. In fact, the biggest stress we put our body under is eating; so, we must make sure our digestive system is functional. Under emotional stress, when one consumes their meal, unfortunately the digestive system becomes suspended…slows down…sometimes to a halt. It is best to eat only in a relaxed calm state. Your body cannot function or heal in a chronically stressed state, no matter how great of a diet you consume. Healing is only when we are relaxed and calm!

It is time for many of us to retrain our body and minds to calm down. I for one lived most of my entire life chronically stressed, not aware of it of course; but nonetheless ignorance didn’t change anything. I had to become aware that my body was breaking down and I got to the point that I could feel the cortisol rushing throughout my body. I had to execute calmness and promote peace in order to heal.

Too much cortisol causes accelerated aging and increases the risk of premature death. Since cortisol is a steroid hormone, it shouldn’t surprise us that exposure to our excess cortisol hormone reflects the same effects as chronic steroid medication. The unwanted side-effects of this overabundance in the body include depleted immunity, heart attacks, liver tumors, kidney failure, mental issues, diabetes, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, depression, obesity and neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease.

It’s time for effective and natural solutions. Most importantly, never underestimate the power of eating a healthy (organic) diet, getting regular physical activity, spending time outdoors with the fresh air and sunshine to just relax to help reduce the stress in your life. Doing nothing for 15 minutes a day. (sit and do absolutely nothing).This helps to reduce the effects of the cortisol, Check the link below:
Sometimes Doing Nothing Often Leads To The Very Best Something!!
Also check on the website and google search for other stress reducers.
If needed, you may add supplements. Supplements should not replace a well-balanced diet; magnesium and L-Theanine help regulate cortisol levels. Vitamin B12, folic acid, and Vitamin C can also help support the metabolism of cortisol. Yogi brand carries many tasty stress reducing and sleepy time caffeine free teas. I love them. Try them out.

Remember this is the time to retrain your body and mind for calmness…It will for some of us take a lot of practice. In my case, I have years of stress abuse to overcome. Experiment, overcoming, what works for you and what may not work for you. Your body and health is worth the effort. Don’t quit!

mariexray@webtv.net
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Marie