Cortisol

Definition

Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and plays a crucial role in stress response, metabolism, and immune function. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and assist with memory formulation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cortisol levels follow a diurnal rhythm, peaking in the early morning and gradually decreasing throughout the day.
2. Chronic high levels of cortisol can lead to conditions such as Cushing's syndrome, which impacts metabolic health.
3. Cortisol influences various bodily functions including blood pressure regulation and glucose metabolism.
4. Nutrition can affect cortisol levels; for example, omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce cortisol production.
5. The body's production of cortisol is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

Review Questions

• What are the primary functions of cortisol in the body?
• How does nutrition influence cortisol levels?
• Describe the diurnal rhythm of cortisol secretion.

Related terms

Adrenal Glands: Small glands located on top of each kidney that produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis: A complex set of interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands that regulate stress responses and other body processes.

Cushing's Syndrome: A condition characterized by excessive cortisol production leading to symptoms like weight gain, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis.