7 Signs Of High Cortisol Levels And How It Affects Women's Health

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that affects millions of women worldwide. In this condition, ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgen, resulting in the creation of cysts in the ovaries. Cortisol, also known as glucocorticoids, is a hormone generated by the adrenal gland. This hormone plays an important role in metabolic activities, helping in the digestion of carbs, fats, and proteins. High levels of cortisol in the body may aggravate the symptoms of PCOS. Doctors often refer to High Cortisol levels as Cushing Syndrome or hypercortisolism.

But what are its symptoms and how it hampers our health?

As per Nutritionist/Dietician Shikha Gupta symptoms of High Cortisol include High Blood Pressure, Mood Swings, Anxiety, Insomnia, Craving Sugary or salty foods, Impaired cognitive function, and irritability.

Cortisol is responsible for Blood Sugar Levels

Gupta earlier wrote in her Instagram post, “Imbalanced cortisol levels can influence blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Chronic stress and high cortisol may contribute to hypertension and blood sugar dysregulation. Managing cortisol through stress reduction, exercise, and healthy eating can help maintain optimal blood pressure and blood sugar levels.”

Affects sleep

Cortisol may prompt the adrenal system to go into a flight or fight mode leading to sleep loss and exhaustion. “Enhance sleep hygiene with consistent schedules and soothing bedtime routines to improve cortisol regulation and enjoy restful sleep,” wrote Gupta.

Weight Gain

A high level of Cortisol may lead to weight gain especially in the abdomen area as it makes the body less responsive to insulin. “Maintain a balanced lifestyle with nutritious meals and regular exercise to manage cortisol and support weight goals,” Gupta wrote in her post.

Feeling Lonely

According to Tallene Hacatoryan, a PCOS Dietician and Cyster, “High Cortisol levels in PCOS can lead to major mood swings, feeling stressed, anxiety and feeling lonely.” Consuming caffeine and doing intense workouts can raise cortisol levels in the body.

Unusual cravings

It can also cause persistent food cravings even after eating as it disrupts the body’s appetite-regulating hormones.

Weakens the immunity

Nutritionist Shikha Gupta wrote in her Instagram post, “Cortisol affects our immune system’s response to stress and inflammation. High cortisol levels can weaken immunity. Prioritize healthy habits like sleep, exercise, balanced diet, and stress reduction to maintain immune function.”

Low Libido

High level of Cortisol may affect your sex life too as it can lower the sexual desire of the body. Tallene wrote in her Instagram post, “It disrupts hormones like testosterone and also causes stress-related fatigue and emotional changes that may lead to a decrease in desire.”