Cortisol's primary function is to regulate your body's stress response.
Cortisol's Role in Stress Management
Cortisol is often called the "stress hormone," and it plays a crucial role in helping your body cope with stressful situations. Here's a breakdown of how it works:
- Following the "Fight or Flight" Response: When you encounter stress, your body first releases hormones like adrenaline to prepare you for immediate action. After this initial surge, cortisol kicks in to help maintain a state of high alert.
- Glucose Release for Energy: Cortisol prompts your liver to release glucose (sugar). This ensures that you have an easily accessible source of energy to deal with the stressful event.
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Regulates Stress Response | Ensures the body stays on high alert by supporting the initial "fight or flight" response |
| Triggers Glucose Release | Provides fast energy by signaling the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream |
In essence, cortisol is a key player in your body's stress response mechanism, providing both sustained alertness and a readily available energy source.
