What is a major result of elevated cortisol levels over prolonged periods?

Elevated cortisol levels over prolonged periods lead to suppressed immune system function. Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress and low blood glucose levels. While cortisol plays vital roles in various bodily functions, chronic elevation can have detrimental effects.

One of the critical roles of cortisol is to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. When cortisol levels remain high over time, this suppression becomes excessive, which can impair the body’s ability to fight infections and respond appropriately to pathogens. As a result, individuals may become more susceptible to illnesses due to a weakened immune system.

In contrast, improved immune function would suggest that the body is better able to defend against diseases, which contradicts the effects of prolonged elevated cortisol. Similarly, both increased carbohydrate uptake and enhanced fat loss are not typically associated with long-term high cortisol levels. Chronic high levels of cortisol are more often linked to weight gain rather than fat loss as it can promote fat deposition, particularly in the abdominal area.

Understanding the implications of chronic high cortisol is crucial for recognizing how stress and hormonal imbalances can affect overall health.