Been dealing with digestive issues and constant fatigue? High cortisol could be the hidden culprit and you might not even know it. In this blog, we’ll break down what high cortisol is, the common symptoms to watch for, and what you can do to start feeling better.
So, first things first. What is high cortisol? High cortisol means your body has too much of the stress hormone, cortisol, for too long. This can happen when you're under constant stress and can lead to a range of problems.
High cortisol causes health problems because it keeps your body in "stress mode" for too long. Cortisol is helpful in short bursts, it gives you energy, helps you react quickly, and keeps you alert. But when it's high all the time, it throws off important systems like digestion, sleep, mood, and your immune response.
Symptoms of high cortisol:
- Fatigue, even after rest
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Weight gain, especially around the belly
- Anxiety, irritability, or low mood
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
- Digestive issues (bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea)
- Sugar or salt cravings
- Weakened immune system (getting sick often)
- Acne or skin issues
- Irregular periods or low libido
These symptoms often develop gradually and worsen over time, making it easy to miss that high cortisol is the underlying cause.
How to test for high cortisol:
If you suspect high cortisol may be affecting your health, the first step is to speak with your GP. They can arrange tests to measure your cortisol levels using blood, saliva, or urine samples. Blood tests are usually done in the morning when cortisol is at its highest. Saliva tests can check cortisol levels at different times of the day to see if your natural rhythm is off. Urine tests measure cortisol over 24 hours to give a broader picture. If your symptoms are persistent or worsening, it’s important to get medical advice to rule out underlying conditions and receive the right support.
Lower high cortisol naturally:
Lowering cortisol naturally is all about making small lifestyle changes that help your body relax and recover.
- Manage stress and try setting aside time each day for activities you enjoy or practise mindfulness and meditation.
- Getting quality sleep is essential, so aim for a regular bedtime routine and create a calm, dark environment in your bedroom.
- Regular exercise, like walking, yoga, or swimming, can also help reduce stress hormones.
- Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, supports your body’s natural balance.
- Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or gentle stretching can calm your nervous system and lower cortisol levels over time.
- Chew Gum: Chewing gum can reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation through repetitive motion
- 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Exercise: Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste to pull your mind out of a stress spiral.
- Practice cold water therapy like cold showers or dips (known to lower cortisol).
High cortisol doesn’t just affect how you feel, it can also influence your long-term health if left unchecked. Chronic high levels have been linked to issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and even challenges with memory and concentration. That’s why it’s so important to recognise the signs early and take steps to manage stress effectively. By understanding your body’s signals and making small but meaningful changes, you can protect your health and improve your quality of life over time.
When to seek help:
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms like extreme fatigue, unexplained weight changes, mood swings, or ongoing digestive problems, it’s important to see a healthcare professional. You should also seek medical advice if stress and high cortisol are interfering with your daily life, sleep, or relationships. In some cases, high cortisol can be caused by underlying health conditions that need specific treatment. A GP can help diagnose the cause, run the necessary tests, and guide you toward the right care, whether that’s lifestyle support, therapy, or medication.
We hope this blog has helped you understand more about high cortisol and how it can affect your health. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve your sleep, balance your mood, or simply feel more energised, managing cortisol levels is a great place to start on your journey to better wellbeing.
Coda Pharmacy is here to support you every step of the way. From offering expert advice on high cortisol to delivering your NHS prescriptions free of charge. If you have any questions about what you have read in this article or any of the services that Coda Pharmacy can provide you with, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us here.
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