Cortisol Levels In The Human Body: A Case Study

Cortisol is a predominant hormone in the body that is secreted by the adrenal gland. This hormone may also be known as the stress hormone and is used to help the body manage stress. Cortisol plays a vital role within the body by regulating various fuels in the body, recouping energy flowing stress, uses glucose and fats for energy that also helps the body manage stress.

According to Bergland (2013) “Scientists have known for years that elevated cortisol levels can interfere with learning and memory, lower immune functions and bone density, increase weight gain and blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart disease” (Bergland, 2013). Cortisol levels are prone to rise when the pituitary gland releases a hormone called adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH, Corticotropin), which is the primary stimulator of the adrenal cortex. Cortisol is often discharged by the adrenal gland as a response to fear or stress. This gland is located on top of the kidneys and produce hormones, including cortisol which helps an individual response to stress.

“The body is hard-wired to react to stress in ways meant to protect you against threats from predators and aggressors” (Staff, 1998-2017). Eustress (beneficial stress) or distress can both cause cortisol to be released. Once this hormone has been distributed, the body prepares to act in response as a fight (defend one’s self) or flight (run off and get way) mechanism. This fight or flight reaction may resume, if a person feels constantly under attack, once a threat has passed the hormone levels can return to