Difference between high VS low cortisol

So we know that cortisol is our main 'stress' hormone. 

Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands, which are two small organs that are situated on top of our kidneys. However, the release and signal for the production of the hormone is orchestrated by a 'feedback loop' between the hypothalamus and pituitary (both parts of the brain) along with the adrenal glands. This is referred to as the HPA axis. 

We refer to a state of high cortisol as 'fight or flight' and low cortisol as 'adrenal fatigue', 'adrenal exhaustion', or 'chronic fatigue'.

Essentially, if you run in 'fight or flight' for too long, the HPA axis just can't keep up and will begin to under function. 

There are many signs and symptoms associated with both of these issues and some do overlap, so let's have a look...

Signs of high cortisol 

• Wired but tired 

• Anxiety

• Irregular or absent periods 

• High blood pressure

• Low libido 

• Weight gain (predominantly in the stomach and face area) 

• Digestion issues such as undigested food in stool, bloating, heartburn, IBS (constipation or diarrhoea)

• Acne 

• Excessive thirst and urination 

• Insomnia

Signs of low cortisol 

• Flat lined with low energy all day 

• Anxiety 

• Low libido 

• Brain fog 

• Low mood

• Insomnia

• Weight gain or loss 

• Sugar/salt cravings

The best way to check accurately for your cortisol level is to complete a Stress Profile which requires saliva samples throughout the day, this then forms a graph of YOUR cortisol pattern. It may be that your cortisol issues are only abnormal in the morning, or perhaps they are spiking in the evening. So by assessing this we can formulate an effective treatment approach, and there is a lot we can do naturally to support normal adrenal function.

Depending on whether the client's cortisol is high or low, I use herbal medicines such as Withania, Licorice, Siberian Ginseng, Holy Basil, Chamomile, Astragalus and Lemon balm. I also use nutrients such as vitamin C, magnesium and B vitamins. Self care is also extremely important and needs to be factored in to a comprehensive treatment, because at the end of the day, many factors that have influenced the client's current state of health is based on their external stressors and stress management. 

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Emily x