Cortisol is known as ''the stress hormone''. It is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are located in the kidneys. Its main function is to help the body respond to stress and keep the body in balance.

A high level of cortisol in the body can have negative long-term health effects, including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity.

How do you know if you have excess cortisol in your body?

There are 10 symptoms that may indicate that cortisol levels in your body are high:

• Night anxiety
• Fatigue Irritability
• Lack of concentration
• Food anxiety
• Weakened memory
• Hair loss
• scattered mind
• Aggravated premenstrual syndrome
• Itchy skin

The consequences of having a high level of cortisol in the long term are several negative health effects:

• Affects the immune system: High levels of cortisol lead to inflammatory effects and leave the immune system weakened by stress. Consequently, the defenses are lowered and the body may be more susceptible to infections.
• Affects mental health : A high level of cortisol can contribute to the development of mental disorders such as anxiety and depression
• Affects sleep : It can make it difficult to sleep and relax.
• Affects metabolism: It can contribute to weight gain and make it difficult to lose weight.
• Affects the heart: increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and coronary heart disease

There are several ways to reduce cortisol naturally.

Regular physical exercise

Performing regular physical exercise is one of the best ways to reduce cortisol levels in the body, and therefore stress. Walking, running or swimming have been shown to reduce cortisol levels in the body and reduce inflammation in the body, which can also reduce cortisol levels.

Practice meditation and relaxation

A study has shown that meditation can reduce cortisol levels in the body, while relaxation, such as yoga or deep breathing, helps reduce muscle tension and anxiety.

Sleep

Sleeping 7 to 8 hours a day is important to reduce cortisol levels in the body. Lack of sleep increases cortisol levels and negatively affects both the immune system and the nervous system.

Healthy nutrition

Eating healthy foods is important to reduce cholesterol levels, since processed foods rich in refined sugars and saturated fats increase them. Fruits, vegetables and lean proteins are key to keeping cortisol levels balanced.

Reduce caffeine consumption

It is important to reduce your consumption of coffee and other caffeinated beverages to reduce cortisol levels.

Take natural supplements

Some natural supplements can help reduce cortisol levels in the body. Some adaptogenic herbs such as ashwagandha have been shown to have beneficial effects in reducing health, cortisol levels and improving the body's response to stress naturally.

You can find Ashwagandha in CHIC&LOVE's ANTI-STRESS gummies. These vitamins contain Ashwagandha, Melissa extract and Ginseng extract with proven benefits to combat stress and fatigue. Reduces irritability and promotes a state of mental calm.

It is important to follow all these tips to balance and maintain cortisol levels so that it does not affect our body and, as a consequence, lead to serious illnesses.