The stress hormone, commonly known as cortisol, is for many people the hormones' biggest enemy, yet it is so common in today’s world. Scientists have published research over the years proving that elevated cortisol levels interfere with learning and memory, lower immune function and bone density, increase weight gain, blood pressure, cholesterol and heart disease — to name just a few. Therefore, the importance of reducing your stress levels to promote healthy hormones in men is paramount.
What is a stress response?
When we are faced with a threat (real or imagined) a signal gets sent to a part of the brain (hypothalamus), which then sends a messenger (hormone) to the pituitary — this then sends a message to the adrenals that produce adrenaline and cortisol, which forms your HPArole of the HPA axis in maintaining physical and mental health with disruptions in its functioning being acknowledged in most mental health conditions including chronic pain and fatigue-related conditions. Yet little of this knowledge is applied in a pharmacological-based model of practice of medicine; there is no quick fix or pill to alleviate an overdriven and overstimulated stress axis. However, lifestyle changes are often helpful.
