The hormone, cortisol, is produced by the adrenal glands in
response to stress. Cortisol is necessary and in normal amounts is able to cope
with everyday hassles as well as major life events that are stressful. If
produced in excess over a period of time, however, it is extremely harmful and
this can significantly accelerate aging. To add to the problem, cortisol is
only steroid hormone that actually increases its levels as you age.
Tips how to lower stress hormone include;
- Practice daily relaxation, meditation and mind-body therapies.
- Supplement your diet with 300 mg magnesium daily, together with zinc, antioxidants and a cock-tail of B vitamins.
- Supplement with herbal compounds known as adaptogens, which support the adrenal glands. These include Eleutherococcus has been given to Russian athletes to improve stamina and endurance. Note that you should not take pure panax ginseng (also known as Chinese ginseng) as this can cause high blood pressure. Chinese doctors recommend its use only for patients who are debilitated. When panax ginseng is added to multiple formulas, it is only included in small amounts, and is thus not harmful.
- Consider taking DHEA (the adrenal prehormone dehydroepiandrosterone) under medical supervision if your blood levels are below normal. Start with a small amount (5-25 mg) and monitor your blood levels before and during supplementation. The action of DHEA includes its ability to balance cortisol and stress levels. DHEA also increases libido and generally improves your feeling of well-being.
- Pregnenalone is a precursor of DHEA, which is placed further up the hormone cascade. It is considered safer to use as an alternative to DHEA. Your doctor should supervise its use.
