You’ve probably heard cortisol referred to as the “stress hormone,” but the science behind cortisol’s reputation is much more complex. Cortisol is an essential steroid hormone secreted by the adrenal glands. It has many functions, including assisting the processes that control blood pressure, blood sugar and circadian rhythm, and suppressing inflammation. Cortisol also plays a role in immune response and regulates glucose metabolism. Cortisol is involved in the body’s stress response, but its “stress hormone” moniker is a little misleading. Find out more about cortisol and how to keep yours in check here.
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