Simple Ways to Naturally Lower Your Cortisol Levels

The body produces a hormone called cortisol, which performs a number of significant functions. These include reducing inflammation, balancing blood sugar levels, and regulating metabolism. The body produces cortisol during times of stress or illness as a way of protecting itself. While high levels of cortisol can be beneficial for short-term situations, continued exposure to it can lead to many negative consequences. There is good news, though. There are some simple things women can do to naturally reduce their cortisol levels, some of which are discussed below.

Add More Whole Grains to Your Diet

It is essential for your health that you consume whole grain foods as they work to balance your blood sugar. Fluctuation in blood sugar levels can increase your body’s production of cortisol, and eating more whole grains will help prevent the creation of excess cortisol. Also, eating more of it reduces the number of processed foods that you eat. It helps balance sugar levels because processed foods often contain large amounts of added sugar. Furthermore, whole grains also help with proper digestion, which is important to overall health.

Exercise Regularly

There is no one simple solution to any health problem, but exercise is almost always part of the solution. It can help reduce cortisol levels in different ways. First, exercise keeps blood sugar levels in check. It reduces stress levels and helps maintain a healthy weight. It also improves physical fitness, which aids the body’s better response to anxiety. Furthermore, a person who suffers from anxiety will experience increased heart rate, muscle tension, and heavy breathing. All of these things mimic physical exertion, so someone who is in good physical condition will be able to relax more quickly and produce less cortisol from a stressful event.

Get More Quality Sleep

Sleep deprivation is incredibly detrimental to your health. People who are generally sleep deprived have higher levels of cortisol. Women, in particular, experience dire sleep problems. They do not get enough sleep, nor do they get quality sleep. While expert opinions vary, the standard recommendation of eight hours of sleep each night is a good and reasonable goal. However, it is not enough. Excellent quality of sleep requires a dark, comfortable room with minimal distractions. To help the body get into a rhythm, you should also maintain a regular sleep schedule. You should not consume caffeine in the evenings as it can prevent you from getting into the deep levels of sleep where your body gets the best rest.

While eating better, exercising, and getting a good’s night sleep may not wholly solve a person’s cortisol problem, it will make a big difference for most women.

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