The Biamonte Center for Clinical Nutrition states that cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are glands that rest on top of the kidneys. Cortisol is an essential hormone in the body: it maintains blood pressure, immune function and anti-inflammatory processes. As a result, the lack or excess of cortisol can have several effects on the body.
Managing Stress and Blood Sugar
According to Better Health Channel, cortisol is important in the management of stress. Cortisol levels increase when a person is under stress, hence reducing stress levels. When under stress, cortisol can transform protein into glucose so as to increase sugar levels within the bloodstream. However, cortisol also keeps blood sugar levels in check since it also works with insulin when decreasing the body's blood sugar levels, especially when a person has too much glucose circulating in the blood.
Thyroid Activity and Calcium Levels
Suppression of thyroid activity is one of the effects of excess cortisol, according to the Biamonte Center for Clinical Nutrition. All the symptoms associated with low thyroid activity, such as muscle stiffness, dizziness, restlessness, dry skin, forgetfulness and irritability, can be experienced by a person with high cortisol in the body. Also, high cortisol levels have been linked to osteoporosis, since it can move calcium from the bones and transfer it to the bloodstream, thus leading to the development of fragile bones.
Muscle Pain and Behavior
Buzzle.com reports that symptoms of low cortisol levels include muscle pain and weakness, fatigue and joint pain. Even a person's moods can be affected, since low cortisol levels can cause depression, irritability and mood swings.
Maintaining Blood Pressure and Immune Functioning
Inflammation is also inhibited by cortisol. Moreover, Better Health Channel states that blood pressure is maintained by this hormone, and it boosts immune function as well. The Biamonte Center states that it can be used as a medication for autoimmune illnesses in order to suppress the body's immune system. But then, those without autoimmune illnesses can become prone to develop diseases since their immune systems are suppressed. These people include those with Candida, HIV and cancer, among others.
