How Does Cortisol Affect Fatigue and Stress?

Cortisol, commonly called the “stress hormone,” plays a central role in your body’s response to stress. While it helps you handle short-term challenges, prolonged cortisol imbalance can lead to chronic fatigue and health problems.

What is Cortisol?

Cortisol is produced by your adrenal glands and helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and blood sugar levels. It also controls your “fight or flight” reactions during stressful situations.

How Cortisol Affects Fatigue

When cortisol levels are constantly high due to chronic stress, it can drain your energy reserves, leading to feelings of exhaustion and burnout. Conversely, abnormally low cortisol levels—sometimes due to adrenal fatigue—can also cause persistent tiredness and weakness.

Cortisol and Stress Connection

Chronic stress causes the adrenal glands to produce excess cortisol, disrupting other hormones and impairing bodily functions. This imbalance affects sleep quality, mood, digestion, and immune system strength, creating a cycle of stress and fatigue.

Supporting Healthy Cortisol Levels

• Practice stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.  
• Maintain a healthy sleep schedule and avoid stimulants before bedtime.  
• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.  
• Engage in regular moderate exercise.  

Ask Dr Olz’s Approach

Ask Dr Olz offers tailored hormone assessments to evaluate cortisol balance and personalized strategies to reduce stress and fatigue naturally, helping clients regain energy and resilience.

Balance Within, Thrive Beyond