Cushing’s syndrome is a medical condition caused by pathologically high cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone that is critical to life, but it can cause severe health consequences if it is persistently high. Caffeine is the most commonly used stimulant in the world, and, when taken in high doses, it can increase the amount of cortisol your body produces in response to stress. People with Cushing’s syndrome should avoid high amounts of caffeine.
Cushing’s Syndrome
Cushing’s syndrome is the result of abnormally high levels of the hormone cortisol. Cushing’s syndrome can result from a tumor or other disorder of the pituitary or adrenal glands, involved in the production of cortisol. Some drugs, such as corticosteroids and other steroid hormones, can cause Cushing’s syndrome. Symptoms include accumulation of fat in the abdomen but not the arms or legs; large, purple or red stretch marks; substantial water retention and swelling; weakness and fatigue; mood changes including depression and anxiety; and sexual dysfunction.
Cortisol
Cortisol is produced by your adrenal glands in response to adrenocorticotropic hormone, ACTH, that is produced by the pituitary gland. Cortisol elevates blood sugar; increases the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and protein; suppresses the immune system; decreases bone formation; and increases water retention. Cortisol is normally high during the day and low at night. A small increase in cortisol aids in recovery from exercise and other stress. All treatments for Cushing’s syndrome aim to reduce cortisol levels.
Stress
Both physical and mental stress can lead to an elevation in cortisol levels. Physical stress can be caused by another disease, dehydration, extreme conditions and injury. Persistent mental stress, especially anxiety, also greatly increases cortisol levels. If you have Cushing’s syndrome, work with your doctor to limit stress in your life to aid in reducing cortisol levels.
Caffeine
High intake of caffeine increases the release of cortisol following mental stress, exercise and meals, according to a 2006 study in the journal, "Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior.” A high dose of 400 milligram of caffeine was given in this study, the equivalent of six to eight cups of coffee. MayoClinic.com recommends that healthy adults limit caffeine to 200 to 300 milligrams per day, although, adults with Cushing’s syndrome should avoid caffeine whenever possible. If you have Cushing’s syndrome, ask your doctor about any caffeine in your diet.
References
- PubMed Health: Cushing's Syndrome; October 2009
- University of New Mexico: Cortisol Connection: Tips on Managing Stress and Weight; C.A. Maglione-Garves, et al.
- "Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior"; Cortisol Responses to Mental Stress, Exercise and Meals Following Caffeine Intake in Men and Women; L.R. Lovallo, et al.; 2006
- MayoClinic.com: Caffeine: How Much is Too Much?
