Did you know there’s been a link discovered between the hormone cortisol and dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease? In this post, we’ll review cortisol, discuss the link found, and discuss ways to reduce your risk.
What is Cortisol?
Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, is a small guy with a big job. Cortisol plays a part in quite a few body processes, including:
- Processing macronutrients
- Reducing inflammation
- Blood pressure regulation
- Increasing blood glucose levels
- Managing sleep cycles
- Stress response regulation
What Link was Found Between Cortisol and Alzheimer’s Disease?
Researchers discovered back in 2019 that elevated cortisol levels are correlated to “an increased risk of cognitive decline and [Alzheimer’s Disease].” Furthermore, they also found that high cortisol levels caused Alzheimer’s Disease to progress faster in individuals already diagnosed.
How to Reduce Your Cortisol Levels?
The first step to reducing your cortisol levels is to identify the cause of the elevation. It is usually one of two things – chronic high-stress levels or issues of the pituitary gland.
Sudden increases in stress cause a rise in cortisol levels, but once the stressor has passed, the cortisol level should return to normal. However, when an individual is under constant high stress, the cortisol level never comes down. This causes havoc in the body, including memory and cognition issues. The key to reducing cortisol levels in these cases is better for stress management and lifestyle changes.
If a malfunctioning pituitary gland is a problem, you should seek medical help immediately. If left untreated, the pituitary gland will continue releasing high levels of cortisol, and you could develop Cushing’s syndrome.
Treatment for High Cortisol Levels in Tampa Bay
Worried about high cortisol levels and their relation to Alzheimer’s development? The team here at TLC Medical in Tampa, Westchase, and Plant City can help you identify high cortisol levels and discover the right diet, medication, and lifestyle changes to get them back under control. Call us at (813) 874-1852 or schedule an appointment online today!
