Cortisol is the main stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
Normal cortisol function:
- Waking up in the morning (cortisol levels peak at 8:00)
- Stress management
- Metabolism and weight management
- Modulation of the immune response
Cortisol imbalance:
Too much (chronic stress):
- Abdominal fat
- Insomnia
- High blood pressure
- Fluctuations in sugar levels
Too little (Addison's disease):
- Constant fatigue
- Hypotension
- Skin pigmentation
Dr Caune performs cortisol tests (fasting, daytime) and adrenal function tests.