The Truth About Cortisol: How Stress Is Secretly Wrecking Your Hormones

Written By Savannah Garth

Feeling tired all day, wired at night, and overwhelmed by everything?

At Coastal Health & Vitality, we help people across Richmond Hill, GA uncover how **cortisol—your body’s primary stress hormone—**might be the hidden cause behind fatigue, hormone imbalance, and even weight gain.

What Is Cortisol?

Cortisol is produced by your adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps regulate energy, blood sugar, blood pressure, immune function, and more.

But when cortisol stays too high (or drops too low), it can cause hormonal chaos throughout your body.

Signs Your Cortisol Is Out of Balance:

  • Waking up tired, even after 8+ hours of sleep

  • Energy crashes mid-day

  • Anxiety or feeling easily overwhelmed

  • Trouble falling or staying asleep

  • Cravings for sugar, salt, or caffeine

  • Brain fog or irritability

  • Hormonal issues like irregular cycles or low libido

How Cortisol Affects Other Hormones:

  • Suppresses progesterone, worsening PMS or perimenopause symptoms

  • Interferes with thyroid function, slowing metabolism

  • Triggers estrogen dominance by impairing detox

  • Reduces testosterone, lowering drive and recovery

  • Disrupts insulin, increasing belly fat and cravings

How We Support Cortisol Health Naturally:

  • DUTCH testing to assess cortisol rhythm and adrenal output

  • Adaptogenic herbs and adrenal support

  • Nervous system regulation techniques (breathwork, mindfulness)

  • Sleep and circadian rhythm support

  • Targeted BHRT, if needed, to support affected hormones

Let’s Get You Back in Balance

You don’t need to push through another day of burnout.
📞 Book your consultation today and let us help you support your adrenals—and your whole body.

Savannah Garth
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