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Cortisol and Menopause: The Stress Hormone’s Sneaky Role

oaca

Updated: Jan 9


So, we all know menopause can feel like a never-ending rollercoaster ride, but did you know cortisol, our stress hormone, might be the sneaky operator behind some of those unwelcome twists and turns? Cortisol is like the morning coffee of hormones—great when balanced but a nightmare when it’s all over the place.


When stressed, cortisol and its sidekick, adrenaline, go into overdrive. This is great if you’re outrunning a tiger (unlikely), but not so much if you’re just dealing with daily life. Long-term stress can throw your system off, leading to “adrenal fatigue”—which sounds fancy but just means your body’s kinda over it.


Why Does Stress Make Menopause Worse?

It’s like being stuck in a loop. Stress hikes up your cortisol, which makes menopause symptoms worse, which makes you more stressed… you get it. And when your cortisol levels go wild, it can even mess with your progesterone (the hormone that usually keeps things calm and cool). Talk about hormonal drama.


How to Chill Out: Managing Cortisol

Here are a few easy (and not-so-boring) ways to keep cortisol in check:


Sleep Like a Pro: Set a bedtime and stick to it. Your body craves routine, even if you don’t!


Eat Smarter, Not Harder: Sugary treats spike cortisol—try whole grains and veggies instead.


Move That Body: Yoga, walking, or even gardening can work wonders for those stress levels. No need to overdo it, just keep moving!


Relax (Seriously): Meditation, deep breathing, or a five-minute mental break can bring cortisol back down.


And if you’ve tried everything and are still feeling frazzled, it might be time to check in with your doctor about hormone therapy options. Your hormones may be causing havoc, but with a little care, balance is possible. After all, menopause is just another phase—let’s ride it out with some grace, humour, and maybe fewer hot flashes!


To help balance cortisol levels, several supplements are often recommended:


Ashwagandha – A popular adaptogen that helps reduce stress and support adrenal health.

Rhodiola Rosea – Another adaptogen that enhances resilience to stress and supports energy.

Magnesium – Known for promoting relaxation and reducing stress-induced cortisol spikes.

Phosphatidylserine – Helps lower cortisol levels, especially after exercise.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Found in fish oil, it can reduce stress-induced inflammation and cortisol.


Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements.


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