The human body works like a very smart machine. Many systems work together to keep us healthy. One important system involves a hormone called cortisol.

Many people face weight gain, poor sleep, constant tiredness, or stress without knowing the reason. Often, cortisol is quietly involved.

Cortisol is a hormone made by two small adrenal glands that sit just above the kidneys. It affects almost every part of the body. Cortisol becomes active when we wake up in the morning, exercise, or feel stressed or scared. Because of this, it is often called the “stress hormone.”

Cortisol works like a body alarm system. In the morning, the alarm helps us wake up and feel alert. During stress or danger, it prepares the body to act. At night, the alarm should switch off so the body can rest. Problems begin when this alarm does not turn off.

Normally, cortisol is highest in the morning and slowly reduces through the day. It is lowest at night, helping us sleep. Poor sleep, late nights, night shifts, or irregular routines can confuse cortisol and keep it high at the wrong time.

Cortisol helps control metabolism, blood sugar, blood pressure, inflammation, and the sleep–wake cycle. But long-term high cortisol can cause weight gain, acne, mood swings, irregular periods, anxiety, and poor sleep. Low cortisol can cause weakness, weight loss, tiredness, stomach pain, and vomiting.

Doctors check cortisol through blood, urine, or saliva tests. Simple habits like good sleep, regular routines, exercise, stress control, deep breathing, and relaxation help keep cortisol balanced. Cortisol is essential, but balance is the key.

Tags

• cortisol
• stress hormone
• adrenal glands
• hormone

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