Understanding Cortisol: Balancing Your Body’s Stress Hormone

What Is Cortisol and Why Is It Important?

Cortisol is essential for your overall health because it influences a variety of bodily functions, such as:

• Regulates the way your body processes carbohydrates, fats, and proteins
• Reduces inflammation
• Helps maintain stable blood pressure
• Elevates blood sugar (glucose) levels
• Controls your sleep-wake cycle
• Enhances energy to manage stress and restores equilibrium afterward

The hypothalamus and pituitary gland, both located in your brain, monitor the levels of cortisol in your blood. If your cortisol levels get too low, these brain areas send out signals that prompt your adrenal glands (located on top of your kidneys) to release more cortisol.

Cortisol affects almost every part of your body because it has special receptors in nearly every cell. These receptors allow cortisol to help your body react in different ways depending on what you need at the time. 

For example, when you face something stressful—like giving a big presentation or dealing with an emergency—your cortisol levels shoot up. This spike in cortisol gives you a burst of energy by raising your blood sugar and helping your brain work more efficiently. It also temporarily shuts down less urgent processes, like digestion, so your body can focus entirely on handling the stress.

While this surge in cortisol is helpful in short-term situations, problems arise when your body stays in this "emergency mode" for too long. That's why it's important to manage stress and get enough rest to keep your cortisol levels balanced and your body functioning well.

What Are Normal Cortisol Levels?

If cortisol levels are outside the normal range, it could indicate conditions such as Cushing's syndrome (high cortisol levels) or Addison's disease (low cortisol levels), and further evaluation by a healthcare provider would be necessary.

Normal Cortisol Levels:

1. Morning (6-8 AM):
2. Blood (serum) cortisol levels: 10-20 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) or 275-555 nanomoles per litre (nmol/L).
3. Afternoon (around 4 PM):
4. Blood (serum) cortisol levels: 3-10 µg/dL or 80-275 nmol/L.
5. Night (midnight):
6. Blood (serum) cortisol levels: Less than 5 µg/dL or less than 138 nmol/L.

These values can vary depending on the testing method and the individual factors such as stress levels, illness, or medication use. It is important to interpret cortisol levels within the context of a patient’s overall health and symptoms, often requiring a healthcare professional’s guidance.

The Long-Term Effects of Cortisol Imbalance

When cortisol levels remain imbalanced over a long period, whether too high or too low, it can lead to significant health issues. Chronic high cortisol levels, for instance, can result in weight gain, including cardiovascular disease, weakened immune function, increased risk of infections, mental health disorders, and type 2 diabetes.

On the other hand, low cortisol levels can also have detrimental effects on health. Chronic low cortisol, often associated with conditions like Addison’s disease, can lead to persistent fatigue and muscle weakness. Individuals with low cortisol may feel constantly tired, even after getting sufficient rest. Low cortisol can also cause low blood pressure, resulting in dizziness, fainting, and a general feeling of weakness, particularly during stress or physical exertion.

How Medical Alarms Enhance Safety and Well-Being

INS LifeGuard’s medical alarm systems offer immediate access to qualified nurses during sudden health issues like fainting, fatigue, anxiety, or blood pressure spikes related to cortisol imbalances. 

INS LifeGuard’s personal alarms are meticulously crafted to meet diverse safety needs, providing reliable protection whether you're at home or out and about. Our user-friendly solutions ensure that you and your loved ones are always connected to vital assistance.



24/7 Access to Expert Care

Connect instantly with our experienced nurses with just a button press. Our team is available around the clock, ready to offer immediate assessment and support whenever necessary.



TeleHealth Services 

Our nurses oversee vital signs, conduct monthly health reviews, and can analyse health trends. We can also send detailed reports to your GP or specialist if required.



Advanced Safety Features

GPS Tracking: Locate you in emergencies, even if you cannot respond.

Geofence Alerts: Notify us if someone with cognitive issues wanders outside a designated area.

Fall Detection: Alert for rapid falls, ensuring timely help for those at high risk.



Complimentary INS LifeGuardian Connect® App

With your consent, the INS LifeGuardian Connect® app enables family, carers, or village staff to view and update information, receive alerts, schedule welfare checks, and monitor vital signs and unusual readings. They can also make direct calls to the device if needed.

Final Thoughts

By staying informed about cortisol and recognising the signs of imbalance, you empower yourself to take control of your health. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen—start managing your cortisol levels today with practical strategies and the right support. Your health is your most valuable asset, and taking proactive steps now will help you lead a healthier, more balanced life. 

To find out more about the products and support INS LifeGuard provides call 1800 636 040 or visit our website here.