Cortisol

Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. Often called the 'stress hormone,' it plays vital roles in the body's fight-or-flight response, blood sugar regulation, metabolism, inflammation reduction, and memory formation.

Cortisol follows a diurnal rhythm, peaking in the early morning to help you wake up and gradually declining throughout the day. Chronic elevation of cortisol -- from prolonged stress, poor sleep, or certain medical conditions -- can lead to weight gain (especially abdominal), weakened immune function, high blood pressure, mood disorders, and impaired cognitive function.

Natural ways to manage cortisol include regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress-reduction techniques like meditation, and adaptogenic herbs. Cushing's syndrome results from chronically elevated cortisol, while Addison's disease involves insufficient cortisol production.