Cortisol is a hormone that is manufactured and released by the adrenal glands located on the top of each kidney. The release of the hormone is controlled by another hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone from the pituitary gland. Cortisol has several regulatory functions in the body in a normal state. It is at the highest level in the morning and at the lowest level at night. Although stress isn't the only reason for secretion, cortisol is called the stress hormone because it is secreted in higher levels during a 'fight or flight' response to stress.
Metabolism
In the control and regulation of metabolism, cortisol plays a key part in glucose metabolism and blood sugar regulation. According to physicians at Colorado State University, cortisol stimulates the production of glucose in the liver, moves specific amino acids out of the tissues and into the liver where they are used in the production of glucose to feed the body cells, stops the absorption of glucose by the cells when conservation is necessary for survival and begins the breakdown of fat cells in the production of energy.
Blood Pressure Regulation
Cortisol plays a role in the regulation of blood pressure. In a study published in "Hypertension," researchers found that there were significant differences between groups of individuals who experience hypertension and their cortisol metabolism. Men with higher risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension had increased tissue sensitivity to cortisol which was increased by the higher secretion of the hormone in the body.
Immunity
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the research paper "Cortisol and Immunity," the relationship between cortisol and the immune system is complex but necessary for the development and maintenance of normal human immunity. The dynamic nature of hormonal release and function has contributed to the confusion of the role of cortisol in the body.
Thryoid Functions
According to Dr. David Zava in an interview with Virginia Hopkins Health Watch, cortisol works in concert with thyroid hormone at the cellular level. In essence, cortisol makes thyroid hormone work more effectively and is very important for normal thyroid function. This is why if a person has an imbalance of cortisol, he can have thyroid type symptoms but normal blood thyroid levels.
