How does cortisol help the body respond to stress?

Cortisol, a steroid hormone secreted by the adrenal glands, plays a vital role in the body’s physiological response to stress. During periods of severe physical or emotional stress, the body increases cortisol production to help maintain homeostasis.312

Cortisol supports the body during stress through several key mechanisms:

• Metabolic Regulation: It stimulates gluconeogenesis, the process of breaking down proteins and fats to provide metabolites that the liver converts into glucose. This ensures the body has sufficient energy, while simultaneously blocking glucose uptake in non-essential tissues to prioritize the central nervous system.31
• Cardiovascular Support: It helps maintain blood pressure by augmenting the constrictive effects of catecholamines on blood vessels.31
• Anti-inflammatory Action: Cortisol acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, inhibiting the production and action of inflammatory cytokines to manage the body's internal response to stress.31

Under normal conditions, cortisol secretion is regulated by a feedback loop; however, during stress, this system allows for elevated levels until the stressor subsides.2