Prolonged duration of stress results in elevated cortisol levels. This steroid hormone has several critical functions when the body is undergoing acute stress. Chronic stress in which cortisol levels work over time stresses the body in many ways that increase risk for chronic disease, such as heart disease, overweight, obesity and diabetes.
Definition of High Density Lipoprotein
High density lipoproteins, also known as HDLs, are considered the "good" cholesterol in the blood. The role of HDLs is to carry cholesterol and triglycerides through the water-based blood. The more HDLs you have, the more cholesterol and triglycerides are cleared from the blood. Carrying the triglycerides and cholesterol from the blood is ideal to reduce the possibility of plaque build-up and blood clots in the blood vessels and arteries.
Effects of Cortisol on HDLs
High cortisol levels affect cholesterol metabolism and result in altered formation of HDLs, according to a study in the January 1999 "Hypertension" journal. This is important because the body needs high levels of HDL to clear harmful fats from the blood. The risk for heart disease increases as HDLs decrease. In this study, low HDL cholesterol was associated with high levels of cortisol.
Research on Cortisol and HDL
A study in the January 1999 journal "Hypertension" assessed cardiovascular risk factors including HDL in 439 study participants. Levels of cortisol were measured in the participants and compared with HDL levels. For both men and women, high cortisol levels were observed in those with low HDL. High cortisol levels and low HDL were also associated with obesity. The researchers indicated the 3-way association of body mass index (BMI), high cortisol and low HDL is responsible for the increased risk for heart disease.
Lowering Cortisol Levels
Dealing with the cause of the stress which increases cortisol is the primary treatment for elevated cortisol levels. Since chronically high cortisol levels contribute to inflammation in the body, consuming a low-inflammation diet will help to counteract inflammation in the body. A low-inflammation diet limits the intake of foods which stimulate inflammation such as refined sugars and starches, saturated fat, trans fat and excessive alcohol and caffeine. Instead, anti-inflammatory foods should be consumed. These foods include fruits and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids and whole grains, according to "Today's Dietitian."
