Stress and anxiety both trigger the hormone cortisol which is the body’s built-in alarm system. Cortisol fuels our ‘fight, flight or freeze’ instinct in situations where we may feel off balance.

When cortisol production is running normal, it manages how we use carbohydrates, fats and proteins; keeps inflammation down; regulates blood pressure; increases blood sugar; controls sleep/wake cycles and boosts energy. 

 

When your body is on high alert, cortisol can alter or shut down functions that get in the way, this may include your digestive or reproductive systems, your immune system or even your growth processes. After pressure or danger has passed, your cortisol level should calm down and everything returns to normal.  

 

If you are under constant stress, the alarm button stays on. Unfortunately, this can derail your body’s most important functions and lead to a number of health problems including: