How to Lower Your Cortisol Levels

Cortisol is a hormone that is produced in the body. It performs a number of important 
functions in the body including to reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar, and 
regulate metabolism. In fact, the body makes cortisol during times of stress or illness as 
a way to protect the body. Though high levels of cortisol can be beneficial short term, 
continued exposure to high levels of cortisol can have many negative effects on the 
body. The good news is that there some simple things that women can do to naturally 
reduce their cortisol levels. 

Eat More Whole Grains 

Whole grain foods work to balance blood sugar. As fluctuation in blood sugar level can 
increase cortisol production, consuming more whole grains will help to prevent the 
creation of excess cortisol. Eating more whole grain foods will also reduce the amount 
of processed foods that a person eats. This will also help to balance blood sugar levels 
as processed foods often contain large amounts of added sugar. Whole grains will also 
help a person to feel full more quickly and will promote proper digestion, both of which 
are important to overall health. 

Exercise More 

Though there is not a simple solution to any health problem, getting exercise is almost 
always part of the solution. Exercise can help to reduce cortisol in many ways. Exercise 
will keep blood sugar levels in check. Exercise will reduce stress levels and help people 
to maintain a healthy weight. Exercise also improves physical fitness which will help the 
body to respond better to anxiety. When a person experiences anxiety, her heart rate 
will increase, muscles will tense and breathing may become deeper. All of these things 
mimic physical exertion. A person who is in good physical condition will relax more 
quickly and produce less cortisol from a stressful event. 

Sleep Better 

Those who experience any level of sleep deprivation generally have higher levels of 
cortisol. Unfortunately, many women have serious sleep problems. They do not sleep 
enough nor do they get high quality sleep. Exert opinions vary, but the standard 
recommendation of eight hours of sleep per night is a good goal. But eight hours of 
sleep is not enough. A person needs to sleep in a dark, comfortable room with minimal 
distractions. A person should also sleep on a regular schedule to help the body get into 
a rhythm. Caffeine should not be consumed in the evenings as it can prevent a person 
from getting into the deep levels of sleep where the body gets the best rest. 

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

