Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands as a response to heightened stress levels and is used in maintaining normal metabolic processes in the body. In terms of dietary content, there are foods that can stimulate natural levels of cortisol. Also referred to as hydrocortisone, cortisol has numerous additional effects on the body when introduced in different levels and dosages within the bloodstream. Before choosing to increase cortisol levels via dietary adjustments, speak to a medical professional for more information.
Licorice
One herbal supplement that you can consume to naturally increase cortisol levels is licorice. According to the University of Michigan Health System, licorice herbs contain the active ingredient glycyrrhizin, which is an acid known to increase cortisol levels in the blood and inactivate enzymes within the body that break down cortisol hormones. As of 2010, there were no major adverse reactions related to licorice consumption documented. However, licorice may increase blood pressure slightly in some patients. As a result, speak to your physician to determine if this herb is appropriate for your condition.
Grapefruit
Another food that you can consume to help raise cortisol levels naturally is grapefruit. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, grapefruits help block the enzymes associated with breaking down cortisol, thus leading to increased levels within the bloodstream. Addison's disease is a metabolic condition linked to low levels of hormones or hormonal insufficiencies within the body, including cortisol. Patients with Addison's disease can improve their condition as it pertains to cortisol levels by including grapefruit in their diets. Talk to a medical doctor or nutritionist to determine the best course of action to take when thinking about increasing cortisol via the consumption of grapefruit.
Coffee
Another food, or in this case beverage, that increases cortisol levels in the body is coffee. According to Dr. Janet Starr Hull, an alternative health nutritionist, drinking two to three cups of coffee a day will increase cortisol levels in the body naturally. Coffee serves as a stimulant within the body and can promote increased cortisol secretion as a result. As Dr. Hull states, low levels of cortisol in the body can be very harmful for some individuals due to immune system functionality becoming slower and lower levels of glucose in the blood, which can be harmful for patients with diabetes.
