DIET SCIENCE

Amazing Health Benefits of L-Citrulline and Watermelon

In a previous article, we discussed twenty five foods that provide amazing benefits for human health. There is one amazing food that we missed, however: Watermelon.

In recent years, scientists and health professionals are becoming more aware of the amazing nutritional benefits provided by watermelon.

One thing that we have known for awhile is that watermelons, like tomatoes, have been shown to be a food which is incredibly high in Lycopene content. Lycopene is a form of phytonutrient which is incredibly important for optimal cardiovascular health. Lycopene also provides significant benefits in regard to bone health. Two other quality sources of Lycopene are Guava and Pink Grapefruit. What truly makes Watermelon stand out from the rest is the outstanding concentration of one particular nutrient.

The Fantastic Benefits of L-Citrulline

Although we have understood the importance of Lycopene for a number of years, we are learning about another nutrient contained within watermelon that is incredibly potent: L-Citrulline. L-Citrulline is present in watermelon at levels which are higher than any other food that we know of in the world.

L-Citrulline is a powerful Amino Acid compound that is uncommon in most foods. When nnjjwe consume foods like watermelon which contain Citrulline, the nutrient travels to the kidneys, where is converted into Arginine.

As you know if you have read this site, Arginine is actually used by physicians in order to test the health of the pituitary. Arginine has the ability to naturally stimulate the production of Human Growth Hormone. Adding L-Citrulline to your diet can help you maintain healthy levels of HGH, promoting optimal health and providing benefits to physiological systems throughout the body.

How much L-Citrulline is in a Serving of Watermelon?

Watermelon truly contains an amazing amount of L-Citrulline: 250 mg in every cup. Although much L-Citrulline is converted into Arginine, the nutrient provides its own unique benefits as well. In addition to increasing Human Growth Hormone, Arginine also has direct effects upon maintaining heart health, improving circulation, and increasing blood flow to disparate locations of the body.

L-Citrulline and Obesity

Also, current research suggests that L-Citrulline encourages weight loss and improved weight maintenance. In animal research, there is strong evidence that L-Citrulline contributes to the production of fat antagonists, preventing fat cells from absorbing fat by blocking an enzyme known as TNAP.

In animal research, high levels of Citrulline consumption directly correlate with increased production of amino acid compounds known as Polyarginine Peptides. When L-Citrulline is consumed, it is converted into Arginine by the kidneys, and Arginine is then converted into these Polyarginines. Polyarginines are directly responsible for blocking fat absorption by inhibiting TNAP enzymes. When TNAP is blocked, this prevents fat cells from growing and multiplying with the same level of efficiency.

Although this seems to be the primary mechanism by which L-Citrulline blocks fat accumulation, scientists hypothesize that a combination of Nitric Oxide Production and changes in adipose fat metabolism will likely lead to L-Citrulline being used medically as a tool in the war against obesity.

A Natural Answer to Erectile Dysfunction: L-Citrulline Boosts Nitric Oxide Production

L-Citrulline can also encourage healthier production of Nitric Oxide by the human body through its role in creating an enzyme known as Nitric Oxide Synthase. After L-Citrulline is converted into Arginine by the kidneys. it is then absorbed by human cells and converted into Nitric Oxide. Nitric Oxide is a natural muscle relaxer which is also necessary in order to stimulate the male erection.

When the body releases Nitric Oxide, the blood vessels relax, improving blood pressure and contributing to a healthier cardiovascular system. This increase in blood flow also stimulates healthy sexual function in males. Erectile Dysfunction Drugs like Viagra and Sildenafil actually relieve ED by stimulating the production of Nitric Oxide and improving blood flow to the genitals.

Of course, don't read this information and think that Watermelon can be a replacement for drugs that reverse Erectile Dysfunction or improve blood pressure, because the levels of L-Citrulline present in Watermelon are not medical in concentration. L-Citrulline is simply a vital piece of a puzzle which contributes to optimal cardiovascular health.

How Much Watermelon Does it Take to Provide Significant Effects from L-Citrulline?

In human patients, watermelon consumption has been scientifically proven to boost Arginine Levels in the body, but only when eaten in large portions. In one particular study, subjects drank either 3 or 6 cups of watermelon juice each day for 3 weeks. This increase in Watermelon Consumption led directly to boosts of Arginine varying from 12 to 22 percent.

In terms of calories consumed, that is still pretty amazing. Three portions of watermelon contain 135 calories, provide 60% of your daily value of Vitamin C, and increase your Arginine Levels by at least 12 percent. If you enjoy watermelon, there is arguably no food which can have such a direct impact on your Arginine Levels.

What is the Healthiest Part of a Watermelon?

Most people consider the part of the fruit with the deepest color to be the part which is the healthiest. This is certainly true for foods like grapes, but for watermelon, each part of the watermelon contains high levels of different nutrients in different concentrations. The core portion of the watermelon is bright red in color, and is a much lighter pink closer to the rind.

A few years ago, nutritional researchers actually studied the nutritional content of various areas of the fruit, and came to some amazing conclusions. Watermelon has four primary forms of nutrient: Vitamin C, Lycopene, Flavonoids, and Antioxidants. Every* part of the watermelon contains large amounts of these different nutrients in different locations within the watermelon.

What Are the Healthiest Kinds of Watermelon?

In addition to this, every type of watermelon appears to have its own particular form of nutrient distribution. Unlike many types of foods raised agriculturally these days, all types of watermelon have high levels of nutrient concentration. Another thing that is particular about watermelon is that the lighter-colored pulp of the watermelon contains nutrient levels which rival those in the core of the watermelon in many aspects.

In order to obtain the most benefits, however, it is important to pick a type of watermelon which produces a deep red color in the late stages of ripening.

When selecting the ideal watermelon, the primary thing to keep in mind is to select a watermelon which is completely ripened. Studies demonstrate that watermelon contains the highest concentration of Lycopene when the watermelon is primarily red in color. Ripened watermelon is also rich in Beta-Carotene, but early in the ripening process, there is almost no Beta-Carotene contained within the melon. This is also true of anti-oxidants contained within the watermelon.

If you grow your own watermelons, the key to extracting the most nutrition out of the final product is patience. If you are shopping at a store however, the key is to have a keen eye for detail.

Other Watermelon Benefits

Watermelon Provides Great Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Support

Watermelon contains high levels of a number of different phenol nutrients, carotenoids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids. All of these nutrients are powerful Antioxidant compounds. Among all of these compounds, watermelon has the most significant concentration of Lycopene. It is actually a source so potent, that there are very few foods that can even match it, among which are guava and pink grapefruit.

Why Are Watermelons Red?

The red color in most foods come from two sources: Anthocyanin Flavonoids and Lycopene. Anthocyanins contribute very little to overall health, but Lycopene, on the otherhand, produces all sorts of wonderful benefits. Lycopene has been shown to be a powerful Anti-Inflammatory which is capable of inhibiting the production of enzymes such as lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase which spread inflammation.

Lycopene and Cucurbitacin-C

Lycopene is also able to prevent damage that is produced by natural free-radical exposure as a result of its antioxidant properties. Another Anti-Inflammatory which is present in very few foods is Cucurbitacin-C. This nutrient works very similarly to Lycopene, although it is most effective at limiting free-radicals by a different biological mechanism.

Watermelon Keeps Incredibly Well

Another thing that makes watermelon an excellent choice in a healthy diet is that nutrient levels drop very slowly over time. Even after two days of storage after the fruit has been chopped and prepared, the Lycopene levels in the fruit still remain at optimal levels. The fruit remains near peak nutritional content almost up to a week after it has been prepared.

Watermelons: The Redder the Better

If you are using Watermelon as your primary source of Lycopene, choose varieties with dark-red flesh. Research has shown that red-fleshed watermelons have up to 120 times the level of beta-carotene as some light-pink varieties of watermelon. In addition to this, light pink varieties of watermelon contain almost no Lycopene. If you are not primarily concerned with Lycopene and Beta-Carotene, all types of watermelon contain various levels of a number of phytonutrients.

Watermelon is an Efficient Source of Vitamin C

Although we have been primarily focusing in this article on L-Citrulline, Lycopene, and Beta-carotene, Watermelon is also amazing because it contains so many other vital nutrients as well. Another one of these nutrients is Vitamin C. Per calorie, Watermelon provides a significant amount of the nutrient per calorie.

One serving provides 20% RDV of Vitamin C for a tiny amount of calories, only 45. This makes it great for individuals that are on a diet and trying to figure out a way to maximize their nutritional intake.

Why Should I Eat Watermelon Seeds?

Although most people seem to spit out the seeds, there are beneficial nutrients contained within watermelon seeds as well. watermelon seeds have a small but significant amount of both Zinc and Iron: not enough to provide you with all that you need, but a useful supplement to other sources of these minerals in your diet. Another reason you should eat your seeds is because Watermelon Seeds provide Zinc and Iron in ways that your body can readily digest and use. Studies show that around ninety percent of the Iron and Zinc from watermelon seeds is Bio-Available.

Watermelon seeds also provide a significant amount of protein, around a gram for every twenty four seeds. This means that you will get a healthy amount of protein just by eating a few slices of watermelon (if the watermelon contains seeds, of course!) You'll still need other sources of protein, but watermelon seeds can help you maintain a low-calorie diet while also getting the protein that you need.

Watermelon also provides a decent amount of dietary fiber. If you ate two hundred calories of watermelon, you'd get about four grams of fiber for your trouble. There are better sources of course, but in addition to the antioxidant benefits of watermelon, watermelon will make a solid dent in your daily dietary needs. Watermelon also contains healthy amounts of soluble fiber in addition to insoluble fiber. Most people know that Insoluble Fiber helps maintain regularity and digestive health, but fewer people realize that soluble fiber is incredibly important for maintaining the health of the heart and the cardiovascular system.

Watermelon: An Amazing and Efficient Way to Increase the Health of Your Diet!

Watermelon is a cheap and delicious fruit that does wonders for your health. The light, sweet taste may make you feel like watermelon is not an effective choice for an ideal diet, but that can be no further from the truth. We recommend adding watermelon to your diet on a regular basis. If you really enjoy it, consider making it one of your primary snacks or deserts! It tastes great while being one of the most Calorie-Efficient Fruits available. We recommend watermelon for the benefits of L-Citrulline alone, but all of the additional benefits make it a no-brainer!

The Effects of Cortisol on the Body

The Conscious Evolution Institute

On this webpage, we will discuss one of the most significant factors which speed up the aging process, preventing us from living our life to the full extent Cortisol. We will also discuss what can be done to prevent this often-rogue hormone from devastating our lives. When cortisol levels are either too high or too low, it prevents the body from functioning optimally, and this causes the body and mind to grow older at a faster rate.

Cortisol and the Adrenal Gland

The Adrenal Gland is the endocrine organ responsible for Cortisol Secretion. These glands sit right on top of the kidneys. The adrenal glands receive more blood from circulation than almost any other organ or type of tissue in the body. In addition to this, the adrenal glands are also the bodys store-house for Vitamin C, holding more than any other organ.

What is the Composition of the Adrenal Gland?

The Adrenal Gland is made up of two primary sections. The outer part of the adrenal glands is called the cortex, and it releases a number of hormones such as cortisol, DHEA, and aldosterone. DHEA is one of the key hormones in the production of Testosterone, Estrogen, and the other sex hormones. The central, inside part of the adrenal glands are known as the medulla. The Adrenal Medulla releases the hormones norepinephrine and adrenalin. These two vital hormones are part of an endocrine group known as catecholamines. In common parlance, most people would understand these hormones as the hormones responsible for the fight or flight response that is a central aspect of animal and human behavior.

What is the Adrenal Circadian Rhythm and what is its Importance?

Like many other organs and systems of the body, the adrenal glands release their steroid hormones at different rates throughout the day. This normal pattern of adrenal hormone release is known as the Adrenal Circadian Rhythm. The Adrenal Glands release Steroids such as DHEA and Cortisol in cyclical patterns throughout the day. The Adrenal Glands are at their most active during the early hours of the day. They are least active at night.

This cycle is one of the central enforcers of the circadian rhythm which controls so many of our physiological responses. When the Circadian Rhythm becomes unbalanced, it negatively effects the release of Adrenal hormones. When Cortisol and other hormones are released in a sub-optimal manner it can create major issues all throughout the body. It alters sleep patterns, increases fatigue, and hinders the immune system, among other things.

Energy and the Adrenal Glands

When the adrenal glands are not functioning properly this causes the body great fatigue both at the conscious level and the physiological level. At the physiological level, it reduces the ability for human cells to reproduce and undergo the vital functions which support your organs and therefore your entire body. At the conscious level, this makes you feel tired. It reduces your capacity for work and prevents you from making the most of your life. If you have a lot of trouble waking up in the morning and getting your day started you are likely having issues with your adrenal rhythms.

In addition to this, fatigue will also prevent you from making it through the workday without succumbing to exhaustion. It can also hinder your ability to exercise. If you dont have enough energy, your capacity for physical exertion will be greatly hindered. There are tons of people all across America that suffer from Circadian Rhythm malfunctions and dont realize it.

How Do The Adrenal Glands Effect Muscle and Joint Function?

Low levels of Cortisol and other Adrenal Gland Hormones can also have a devastating impact on tissue healing processes. This greatly affects the joints and the muscles, making people who have adrenal deficiencies much more prone to injuries. Over time, this can even lead to chronic joint and muscle pain. It is relatively well known that steroid abuse can damage the shoulder and hip muscles, but it should also be recognized that the opposite is true as well. If you dont work out your muscles hard enough you can also weaken your body. This doesnt just mean exercise.

Bad posture ruins the muscles and damages joints by underutilizing them even in a sedentary position. Sitting too much, having bad posture, and engaging in a sedentary lifestyle all lead to increased cortisol production which reduces the bodys natural production of sex hormones such as DHEA and Testosterone. This also leads to increased secretion of catecholamines into the bloodstream also. Adrenal malfunction can lead directly to Testosterone Hormone Deficiency.

Although it seems natural that lack of exercise would hinder natural Testosterone production, why does bad posture cause the body to release catecholamines and cortisol?

This position is sometimes referred to as the Neanderthal Posture. In this stance, the shoulders and hips are situated in a flex position. This position is very similar in many ways to the arrangement of the body caused by the fight or flight response. When catecholamines are released and the body assumes a position to fight or run, the body tightens the muscles and prepares for quick action, whether it be toward or away from a source of distress.

Cortisol and the Neanderthal Stance

Although catecholamines and cortisol encourage the body to enter this Neanderthal Stance, just assuming the stance can encourage the increased release of these hormones. Todays sedentary school and office culture propagates the release of amplified levels of cortisol. When we sit at a desk or in a cubicle eight hours a day or more it encourages the body to produce significant amounts of these hormones. Day after day to year after year of this lifestyle can completely wreck your circadian rhythm and proper adrenal function.

Martial Arts such as aikido and jujitsu recognize the negative effects of the catecholamine response on an effective, conscious, and concerted fighting style. It is a necessity in these martial arts programs that students keep their spines straight and their shoulders back. One of the primary reasons for this is that when a fighter is positioned for fight or flight, catecholamine is released which fills the body with frantic energy which can prevent the fighter from performing the delicate art of battle.

Cortisol and Chin Position

Another aspect of posture which effects adrenal response and the aging process is chin positioning. If you sit or stand with your neck forward and your chin jutted out this can speed up the process of aging, especially in the area of cognitive function. When your chin is jutted forward, like when your head is down looking at a keyboard, your skull is tilted downward and this sends signals to the spinal cord to ignore responses from the midbrain and cortex. This is a form of fight-or-flight short circuiting in which the body is preparing itself to move based on perception and reflex rather than through conscious motivation. When the chin is jutted forward, this encourages the cortex and midbrain to perform less actively.

How does Good Posture Increase Brain Activity?

Proper head posture encourages cortex activity, however. When the skull is in an upright position, the impulses from the spinal cord and brain stem travel more efficiently to the midbrain and cortex, encouraging both cognitive and physiological activity. Sitting upright helps you think clearly and maintain an innovative mindset. Physiologically, this increased cognitive ability increases the health of the brain, encouraging the gray matter to produce more vital proteins. It will also help the brain utilize those proteins, converting them into hormones which ensure that we live long lives with healthy minds.

When the jaw is jutted forward and the skull is pointed downward, this prevents the cortex from functioning and optimal capacity, and therefore the stimulative effects of cognition are retarded and if this effect is severe enough, the brain will lose its ability to optimally produce hormones.

Also, if the cortex does not receive enough stimulation, the proteins in the brain start to break down. As these proteins break down, the proteins release their charges, changing the electrical makeup of the brain, causing it to become more positive over time as the negative charges held by the proteins are released into the brain. As this composition in the brain changes, it can cause severely detrimental issues later in life.

What are Action Potentials?

Action potentials are the primary way in which neurons interact with one another. There is a rest level at which the neurons are not active. When the neurons reach a certain level of electrical activity, they release a burst of energy. When the resting potential of the brain has too much energy, it causes the neurons of the brain to fire off at more and more random intervals, causing many neurological issues. When the neurons are firing abnormally, it can lead to significant issues such as tics, spasms, pain, and seizures. In addition to this, it can lead to other major neurological disorders as well.

Ensure Good Posture to Preserve Brain Health!

Also, the proteins in the brain start to break down, and this causes the organ to shrink and atrophy over time. This atrophy is the direct result of underutilization of the cortex and midbrain. When you sit in a jutted forward position too often, this can reduce your cognitive abilities not only while you are in that position, but also later in life as well. It follows the simple and logical idea that what you dont use you are destined to lose. In this way, the brain is a muscle just like any other in the body. In order to maintain physical health, its important to undergo an exercise routine which involves your entire muscular system. If you dont use a particular muscle or group of muscles, then they will start to atrophy and decline. Using your entire brain is important as well. This is why its vitally important to maintain proper posture in addition to simply exercising your cognitive faculties.

In addition to this, there is growing evidence that osteopathic and chiropractic vertebral realignment and mobilization can increase blood flow, allowing the cortex to maintain optimal blood flow and neurological connection the brain stem and spinal cord.

Adrenal Function and Bone Health

The Adrenal Glands are also incredibly important in maintaining the health and structural integrity of the bones. Abnormal cortisol rhythms can break down the strength of the bones. If your cortisol rhythm is reversed (i.e. you release your highest levels of cortisol at night) the bones do not rebuild themselves efficiently. Cortisol levels become high over time and your body does not produce sufficient levels of testosterone and estrogen, then the processes of osteopenia and osteoporosis can set in. The bones slowly become porous and overtime the body becomes highly susceptible to fractures and breaks which can be detrimental to a good life if not absolutely life threatening.

If cortisol production is too high, then even the usage of calcium supplements cannot counteract the negative effects of this hormonal imbalance. When cortisol levels are elevated for an extended period of time, this causes organs known as osteoclasts to break down calcium at an enhanced rate. This increased rate of calcium breakdown causes the body to actually break down its own bones in spite of the devastating consequences. This process is known as bone demineralization.

Organs known as Osteoblasts are responsible for rebuilding bone, but this organ can only function at a certain rate. Because of this, the osteoclasts can easily sap the bones of calcium faster than the body can replace it because of elevated cortisol levels. Often, this causes issues such as kidney stones and other more harmful issues when the calcium leached from the bones is deposited or trapped in other parts of the body.

Cortisol and the Immune System

When cortisol levels are too high, it breaks down the immune system. High cortisol also reduces the ability of the mucous membranes all over the body from functioning properly. Increased cortisol causes there to be a lower number of surface antibodies in these membranes. These anti-bodies are known as Secretory IgA. These antibodies serve the immune system by filtering toxins, bacteria, viruses, and plasmids out of the body. Patients who have high levels of cortisol are much more likely to have mucous and serosal membranes which are not as effective at warding off outside contagions. Because of this, these individuals are far more likely to be plagued with issues such as kidney infections, bladder infections, acid reflux, yeast infections, ulcers, gallbladder inflammation, coughing, sore throat, chronic bronchitis, pink eye, and earaches.

Immune Health and Cortisol Case Study

A young woman we will call Samantha went to visit six separate physicians over the course of the last month. Her eye doctor prescribed her eye drops to resolve a persistent eye infection. Her gynecologist provided her with a medical ointment in order to resolve a yeast infection. Her family doctor prescribed her with expectorant in order to resolve her coughing fits. She also had to visit a gastroenterologist and received an H-2 blocker to resolve her worsening acid reflux. In addition to all of this she also had to take an anti-biotic in order to relieve a sinus infection. She received this medicine from an ear, nose, and, throat specialist. She was further inundated with medication when she had to rush to a rapid care medical office in order to obtain a separate anti-biotic in order to stop a bladder infection that was making it painful for her to urinate.

Although all of these afflictions affected separate parts of the body, they could all be attributed to breakdowns in the mucous membranes which prevent our bodies from succumbing to illness. Before she came to us, she said she felt that there had to be a connection between all of her persistent medical issues and she was coming to us for help. We informed her that her issues were very likely caused by an underlying hormone issue preventing her immune system from working properly. We performed a battery of tests and confirmed that this was the case.

After we confirmed that her issue was rooted in a hormone imbalance, we provided her with a month of hormone balancing care in order to restore optimum hormone balance. Her cortisol levels were through the roof, so we provided her supplements to lower her cortisol levels and normalize her estrogen levels. In addition to this, we worked with her to create nutritional and exercise guidelines in order to help restore her circadian rhythm and normal adrenal gland secretion. After she went through our Natural Therapy Plan, she told us that all of her issues had cleared upEvery Single One. All of this was done without Hormone Replacement Therapy as well, although in many cases, and especially for those suffering from Testosterone Deficiency or Human Growth Hormone Deficiency, Hormone Treatments may be necessary to restore hormone balance.

The Effects of Low Cortisol on Immune Health

Although high levels of cortisol are associated with poor immune response, low levels of cortisol also create major immune issues as well. Patients who have low cortisol tend to have amplified immune responses to otherwise normal stimuli. Cortisol is an immune suppressant. When cortisol levels are normal, this creates an immune balance, preventing us from getting sick by targeting foreign cells which can make us sick while also ignoring outside stimuli which are harmless or even potentially beneficial.

In some cases, high cortisol levels can make us highly sensitive to common allergens. In other cases, it can actually make our immune system perceive its own cells as a threat. This is one of the causes for the relatively common medical issues of psoriasis and dermatitis. When the immune system is over-responsive, it taxes the ability of the entire system to do its job properly. The human body only has a limited amount of energy to work with and when the immune system is over-reactive it takes energy away from other more vital processes, degrading our health as a result. There are a number of other immune disorders which can result from low cortisol, including lupus, Sjorgrens syndrome, and Rheumatoid arthritis.

Cortisol Levels and Sleep Quality

The natural sleep cycle is highly predicated upon healthy cortisol rhythms and balance. Cortisol in many ways acts as an activity generator. When our cortisol levels are low, it prompts the body and mind for sleep. There are a number of disruptions that can occur which can disturb sleeping patterns, however. If cortisol levels are high when they should be low, it interrupts the vital early stage of sleep known as REM-sleep, or Random Eye Movement Sleep. When this phase of sleep is broken up, it takes away from the restoration and refreshment of sleep, leaving us tired and exhausted even after 8 hours of rest.

Many times, this early morning fatigue is misdiagnosed by both patient and physician as a clinical depression. In these cases, patients are often provided psychological medications that they simply dont need and that can in some cases lead to dependence or even make things worse in some cases. Depression that has been caused by cortisol and poor sleep is not properly solved by medications which treat serotonin and norepinephrine imbalance. Always make sure you talk to your psychiatrist about your sleeping habits before you consent to taking anti-depressants, because you may save yourself a lot of money and preserve your health and happiness more efficiently.

Cortisol Case Study Two

The case of a second young womanlets call her Mariashows us how a disturbed circadian rhythm can intensely effect individual well-being. When she was a child she had numerous issues in regard to attention and behavior stability and her parents couldnt figure out what was wrong. Maria was a different girl at different times it seemed. One semester she would excel in a class, the next semester her grades would plummet. She would go from completely unmotivated to cheerful and happy just through the course of a school day. Her parents finally decided to take her to a professional because they realized that something simply wasnt right. Their daughter underwent psychological testing and it seemed that she was just a normal young girl. There was nothing that set off any alarms.

At first, it seemed no one could unravel her erratic academic performance at school. Initially, they thought it might be an aspect of her personality, but the testing seemed to disprove that theory. Next, they thought it might be the result of outside influences such as the particular teaching style or gender of her professor, but the problem persisted even when the teachers were the same gender with the same teaching style. They toyed with the idea that she may simply have been a rebellious little girl, but that answer just didnt seem to cut it either.

High School Only Made Things Worse

Although her problems were bad in middle school, they only got worse once she entered high school. Her mom and dad said that it was a nightmare trying to get her out of bed in the morning. Sometimes they would literally have to take her by the wrist and yank her out of bed. Once they finally managed to get her out of bed and dressed, she was still not fully awake it seemed. She was edgy and ill-tempered, and she was incredibly sluggish as well. Her report cards in high school seemed to be effected even more markedly.

In her first semester of Algebra, her professor noted that she was frequently tardy, showing up minutes after class had begun. In addition to this, she often came in with nothing but her textbook, forgetting many of her necessary and required supplies. She was slow to respond in class and kept to herself for the most part. She often forgot to do her homework, and her teacher was incredibly concerned.

But Then Something Changed: The Power of Hormonal Balance

Things soon changed completely for Maria, however, and her teacher (and Marias parents) were stunned. In the second semester, the young girls performance in class improved tremendously. Her instructor said that she was among the most active and mathematically inclined students that he had ever had the chance to instruct. In addition to this, Maria was very active in the classroom, going out of her way to help other students who were having trouble comprehending the material. So what changed? How did this miraculous turn of events occur? She was taking the exact same class as the previous semester. The textbook was the same and she still had the same professor as she did a month earlier.

What was causing her behavior to change?

The time that the class began

Her second semester of high school she took Algebra after her lunch break. In addition to this, Maria had Gym class first period, the same time that she had taken math the semester before. This semester, her behavioral issues affected her performance in gym rather than mathematics. She was keeping to herself in gym, and was half-heartedly participating in physical exercise if she participated at all. In addition to this, she would frequently come in without gym clothes, in which case she would be forced to sit on the wall, separate from the other students.

Maria Visits a Specialist

With this new set of data points, her physician made the decision to send her to an endocrinologist. The endocrinologist performed blood tests on her both in the morning at 8am and during the afternoon after lunch at 1pm. It was then discovered that Maria was suffering from a significant cortisone imbalance, with levels much lower than normal during the am hours. Because of this, she was incredibly fatigued until nearly afternoon when her cortisol levels would finally normalize and she would become more active, friendly, and motivated.

The Debilitating Effects of Low Cortisol

Low cortisol can have incredible effects upon the daily life of an individual. For some men and women, cortisol deficiency can be so debilitating that the government will actually approve disability support for some of these patients. The levels of fatigue can be so severe that it prevents a person from holding a steady job or making it through the day effectively.

Thankfully for Maria, the effects were not so severe, though it is clear that the condition was having a terrible effect on her educational opportunities. The endocrinologist said that, physiologically speaking, waking up Maria at 6:30 in the morning was tantamount to waking up a normal girl at 2:30 in the morning and expecting them to perform like a rational and well rested person. It was almost too much to ask of a young girl. By the time that lunchtime approached, Marias cortisol levels were finally balancing out, and she was able to be the young woman that she was perfectly capable of being.

The physician prescribed her a low dose of cortisol therapy and helped the parents adjust her sleep, exercise, and dietary habits in order to effectively reset the young girls biological clock so that cortisol levels were at their lowest just before bed and peaked just as she was to wake up and seize the day. The results were simply astonishing. The highly motivated girl that appeared in the afternoon was now available from sunup to sundown, and her performance in school in both academic and physical ventures improved dramatically. She became a bright and cheerful girl, acing her classes and dreaming of her college career. By the time she began her second year of high school, she was waking up at 5:45am in order to attend student council meetingsshe was elected class representative by her classmates!

Diagnosis: Prenatal Hormone Imbalance

After the issue had been resolved, they had one last question. Exactly when did Marias cortisol imbalance take root? Marias mother and father said that she had been amazingly easy to take care of as a child. She didnt become ornery and tearful as night approached, ready to be put to sleep at 8pm like most other children. In addition to that, she never seemed to have significant issues come morning either. In this way, she seemed the complete opposite of her older sister, who would wake up with energy after a nights rest. It seemed that Maria developed her imbalanced cortisol levels at a very early age, perhaps even before she was born!

As the doctor contemplated this point, Marias mother informed him that while she was pregnant, she worked second shift at a highly competitive and demanding workplace. Sometimes she wouldnt get in bed until two or even three in the morning. Although it would be nearly impossible fifteen years later to pinpoint if this were the exact root cause, it seems incredibly likely that Marias mothers work habits altered Marias circadian rhythm prenatally, leading to a childhood and adolescence of late nights and hard mornings.

Cortisol and Skin Regeneration

In addition to bone and muscle regeneration, the skin also rehabilitates itself at night for the most part as well. If the body generates too much cortisol, then skin health starts to deteriorate as a result. A healthy Adrenal Hormonal Rhythm is necessary for the skin to remain optimally healthy. High levels of cortisol play a big role in acne as well, as both adolescents and those who abuse Testosterone can report.

One common reason that many folks suffer from skin conditions is because they have too much copper in their bodies and not enough zinc. Excess copper levels cause dopamine to be converted into adrenaline and norepinephrine. Dopamine is the endocrine hormone associated with pleasure, and is the primary reward provider of the brain. Dopamine spikes lead directly to positive feelings and when you do things that the body is pleased with, the brain rewards you by giving you more dopamine. When you engage in actions that the body considers harmful, dopamine is converted into other hormones like adrenalin and norepinephrine, which both provide short term benefits while preparing the body to defeat outside negative stimuli.

When adrenaline levels increase, this causes cortisol and catecholamine levels to increase is well. Cortisol levels increase in order to decrease the effect of pain stimuli, and catecholamine levels increase in order to prepare the body for fight-or-flight. Although for short periods of time this is incredibly beneficial, it can lead to catastrophic issues when cortisol levels remain elevated frequently for extended periods of time. Long term high cortisol issues can hinder the bodys ability to produce dopamine, which is a direct cause of both Parkinsons and Alzheimers, as well as many other neurological disorders.

In addition to cortisol imbalance, excess copper levels can also exacerbate gluten intolerance, which is a physiological response to gliaden, a compound found in many grains. Gluten allergies are also commonly linked to skin issues such as eczema.

Thyroid Function and Cortisol

Cortisol is the primary factor of thyroid hormone secretion at the molecular level. Cortisol imbalances can lead to many severe issues which are the direct result of hypothyroidism like fatigue, abnormally low body temperature, and issues with weight loss. For patients who do not receive benefit or only receive temporary relief from the issues of hypothyroidism, cortisol imbalance may be the underlying cause of their deficiency.

Gluten Intolerance, Cortisol, and Stress

For patients who suffer from a condition known as gluten intolerance, the digestive system responds negatively to the digestion of gluten grains. These grains produce significant levels of inflammation within thirty minutes of the consumption of grains such as oats, barley, spelt, and rye. Although for the majority of patients who have gluten sensitivity, the physical symptoms of pain are not altogether too severe, for some patients it creates significant amounts of pain throughout the digestive tract. It has been compared to a feeling of sore throat which seems to be 30 feet long.

This form of gluten sensitivity is common among young babies and it is known as colic. It takes a couple of years for the human digestive tract to develop tolerance for all of the foods that adults normally consume as a part of their normal diet. Certain digestive bacteria and internal processes have to fully develop before the body is able to fully process an adult diet. The common assumption used to be that all kids eventually outgrew the condition of colic, but it is clear to day that is in no way the case. The body slowly develops a resistance to gluten agitation in normal children, but for a significant number of people, the body never fully gains the ability to process gluten.

For patients who are sensitive to gluten but not highly symptomatic, the problems can still negatively impact the body in major ways. For these people, the body is able to mask the inflammation associated with gluten grain consumption by producing cortisol. The body trains itself to produce cortisol whenever gluten is consumed and this can create a significant cortisol imbalance dependent upon the amount of grain that a gliaden-sensitive individual consumes. In a large number of these patients, another chemical is released by the body in addition to cortisol which has even more significant pain reliving effects, and carries many similarities with the highly addictive substance morphine. For this reason, wheat consumption can become both harmful and addictive in many individuals. The bodys natural aversion to negative stimuli is high-jacked by this complicated physiological process.

Gluten Sensitive Patients Release Cortisol and Other Painkillers

After this morphine derivative is released by the digestive track it is then taken directly in by the blood stream where it is circulated through the body to the brain. In the brain, this pain killer attaches itself to the same receptors responsible for the painkilling powers of morphine, and the molecule creates the same symptoms of addiction as well. This is why the human brain can develop addictions to certain foods which are physiologically damaging to many individuals, such as grain or dairy products which illicit a negative response of inflammation.

There are many who argue that dairy and gluten-sensitivity are far more widespread than we have been lead to believe, and that it is possible to actually see the hallmarks of addiction in those who commonly consume gluten-wheats and milk-based dairy products. It is believed that the consumption of these foods creates high levels of cortisol and hormonal instability which create a rollercoaster of ups and downs directly attributable to diet. They also argue that many people who try to forgo milk and dairy products suffer from significant symptoms of withdrawal as a direct result of their food addictions.

Elevated Cortisol Levels and Diminished Sex Drive

When our bodies manifest an excessive amount of cortisol in response to negative stimuli, it keeps our bodies from producing sufficient levels of other hormones such as Estrogen, Testosterone, and DHEA. The body produces cortisol in order for the body to essentially fight through pain. It is not generally meant to be a long term way to manage pain. In order to manufacture cortisol in order to counteract pain and inflammation, the endocrine system uses energy and proteins that would normally be used for the maintenance of the sex hormones and uses those resources in order to create even more cortisol. The primary sex hormone that is used for cortisol conversion is a sex hormone precursor known as progesterone.

Cortisol and Abnormal Sex Hormone Dominance

This decreased amount of progesterone in the body leads to a situation in which female estrogen male testosterone and female estrogen become dominant in comparison to serum levels of progesterone. This causes a number of issues related to estrogen dominance and testosterone dominance. Throughout our lives, the sex hormones participate in a delicate balancing act in order to provide maximum benefits to the human body. Issues such as high cortisol disrupt this homeostatic balance and create major issues throughout the body.

Both Estrogen and Testosterone dominance have been correlated with a number of behavioral issues such as irritability, violence, and aggression. In women, feminine hormone dominance can lead to other issues such as aggravated pre-menstrual syndrome, benign fibroid tumors in the uterus, and increased incidence of uterine and breast cancer. On top of that, it can lead to blood clotting and heavy flow during menstruation. For pregnant women, progesterone deficiency is also dangerous because increases the odds that a women will undergo miscarriage. As you can see, low progesterone levels are no laughing matter.

Also, progesterone balance is incredibly important in males because its presence prevents Testosterone from being broken down into DHT. DHT is an important male hormone which serves vital purposes, but, like cortisol, DHT causes major issues when it is released in excess.

Progesterone Deficiency inevitably leads to Low-T over time. This leads to excess levels of DHT, decreased sex drive, balding, and increases in prostate size, which creates issues with bladder health and control. Also, Testosterone-Cortisone imbalance increases the frequency and severity of migraines.

What Causes Cortisol Imbalance?

There are many activities and risk factors which raise cortisol levels. Among these are:

1. Skipping BreakfastBreakfast is supposed to be the meal which kick-starts the metabolism, preparing us for a busy day. Eating breakfast also satiates the body, reducing the spike in cortisol levels associated with waking us up in the morning. A healthy and regular breakfast anchors the circadian rhythm.

2. Skipping other mealsCortisol is one of the primary indicators for hunger in general. Skipping meals, whether due to a busy lifestyle or for the purpose of weight loss, prevents slowly rising cortisol levels from going through the process of rebalancing. In addition to this, skipping meals slows down the metabolism, decreasing the rate at which the body consumes calories ambiently. It is always better to eat smaller meals more often in order to both suppress hunger and cortisol levels.

3. Eating more carbohydrates than proteins over the course of any 5 hour timespanCarbohydrates are complex sugars that, although necessary for proper human function, are grossly over-consumed by the majority of Americans. High levels of carbohydrates wreak havoc upon both HGH and Sex Hormone Balance. In addition to this, for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity, carbohydrate digestion leads directly to excess cortisol secretion.

4. Bad postureStaying in a stance in which the shoulders are slouched or flexed forward, sitting with the hips bent, or staying in a position in which the head is tilted forward with the chin down are all examples of bad posture. All of these positions are associated with the fight or flight response, which increases the production of both catecholamines and cortisol, unbalancing sex hormone production.

5. Going to sleep late (i.e. after 10pm)This is one of the worse culprits for excess cortisol production. The body is naturally tuned to produce the least amount of cortisol at night when the body is preparing for bed. Staying up too late causes the body to produce more cortisol later, and this is exacerbated dependent upon how long the bad sleeping habits have persisted. Staying up later also pushes back the morning cortisol peak which causes people with bad sleeping habits to be groggy in the morning, sometimes for hours after they wake up. This Circadian Rhythm Malfunction also causes metabolism to atrophy, leading to a buildup of body fat and reduction in muscle mass.

6. Experiencing emotional distressAny form of pain corresponds with an increase in cortisol production, whether that pain be physical or emotional. Long term anxiety or depression, anything that has a negative effect on well-being and positive mentality, has the ability to increase cortisol levels. High cortisol levels can also contribute to these feeling of depression and anxiety by reducing natural sex hormone levels. Testosterone and Estrogen are natural anti-depressants when they are properly balanced, and when cortisol eats away at hormone production, this leads directly to more emotional issues.

7. Undergoing any type of painThis is what the majority of Americans understand as the primary function of cortisol. Cortisol is a potent form of pain relief provided by the body to aid it in physical and mental endurance while under short term duress. Cortisol levels spike dependent upon the intensity of the pain, reducing the bodys negative response to this stimuli in order to prepare the mind and body to escape that pain by any means necessary. When pain and stress are temporary this is an amazing way that our bodies help us cope with temporary issues. The problem is that cortisol production creates many problems when the body utilizes the hormone for long term pain management. Chronic pain also triggers a Cortisol response as well, which can be far more problematic. Long term pain causes the body to produce excess levels of cortisol over an extended period of time, which can be damaging both cognitively and physiologically.

In addition to this, long term levels of high cortisol production slowly eat away at the precursor hormones that combine to produce this vital pain reliever. After a certain period of time, the body no longer has the ability to produce enough cortisol to cover the demands placed by the body, which over time can leave the body and mind susceptible to increased levels of pain. This nadir of cortisol production is the bodys way of telling you to ease up and give yourself time to recuperate.

Healthy and low cortisol levels slow down the rate at which the body ages, helping you live a longer and healthier life while looking and feeling younger. Although low levels of cortisol do produce Anti-Aging effects, it also causes many other physiological issues which counteract those benefits, so it is in your best interests to maintain healthy cortisol levelsdefinitely not too high, but avoid allowing them to get too low.

How can I slow down aging? What does aging have to do with Cortisol?

Eat breakfast early

Eating breakfast early (preferably around 8am) increases metabolism throughout the day and decreases cortisol levels which spike around the time you wake up in the morning.

At breakfast, eat at least as much protein as carbohydrates, and consume protein every five hours

Protein has a number of positive effects on the body, and these nutrients are the building blocks of a healthy life. They contain fewer calories per gram than carbohydrates and the stomach works harder to process them. Your body uses protein to refuel the body and to manufacture the building blocks of your enzymes and hormones.

About five hours after your last meal, cortisol levels begin to be secreted at high levels, prompting feelings of hunger. In order to minimize cortisol production, it is important to satiate this cortisol response with a healthy and nutritious meal as soon as possible. The eight hour period of sleep Is a form of fast, and in healthy individuals, our cortisol levels slowly rise until we awake in the morning. Cortisol provides us with the energy we need to wake up even when our stomachs are empty. Eating dinner after 8pm can upset this natural rhythm of the adrenal glands. If you eat later, your cortisol levels spike later and your body prompts you to wake up later than normal.

If you wake up before your body tells you that you are fully rested, you experience grogginess and fatigue even if you theoretically had a full nights sleep. This can lead to energy issues which last for the entire day. Once cortisol rhythms become unbalanced, it can be very difficult to restore proper balance without a concerted effort, or without assistance provided by Hormone Replacement Therapy. By the time cortisol levels reach their high point, it is already fairly late in the day. This completely alters the pattern of human hunger and encourages self-perpetuating poor sleeping and eating habits which completely dirupt the normal circadian rhythm.

Dont skip meals

Many people who suffer from fatigue and tiredness unconsciously skip breakfast in order to raise cortisol levels in order to spur feelings of awareness and mental acuity. This activity does indeed increase the production of cortisol, but it also increases the level at which adrenalin is produced, which shares many similarities with cortisol. Adrenalin is intended by the body for short term use in order to resolve immediate critical issues, but when adrenalin is secreted frequently and for long periods of time it disrupts the delicate balance of hormones within the human endocrine system. Over time, high levels of serum adrenalin lead to physiological breakdown and enhance the rate at which aging occurs.

Another reason that it is unhealthy to starve oneself before bedtime is that the brain needs an internal supply of glycogen in order to power the brain and govern internal processes over the course of the night. Glycogen levels increase whenever we eat protein or when we consume foods which have a low glycemic index. This is why the frequent consumption of healthy proteins is vital to mental and physiological health and well-being. Whenever we skip a meal, or whenever we eat an unhealthy meal in which we consume far more carbohydrates and sugars than proteins, our body has to consume more of its own internal store of precious glycogen. Glycogen that the brain uses for fuel is stored inside the liver.

Limit Starches and Sugars

Eating too many sugars and starches, or skipping meals as a habit, can disrupt the circadian rhythm and raise cortisol levels while decreasing internal store of brain fuel. For patients who are in the process or restoring normal sleeping habits, they might need to eat a very small amount of protein before bedtime in order to ensure that the brain has enough energy to perform all of its vital nighttime functions. If the brain is starved of glycogen, this creates numerous issues. The brain no longer has the energy it needs to support healing functions, and the body starts to age and atrophy. In addition to this, the brain stores data and internalizes learning at night, so memory and cognition also break down for the same reason.

Support Brain Function by Building Glycogen Stores

There is a ton of debate about which foods most effectively increase glycogen levels in the liver. One of the primary reasons for this confusion began in the seventies when athletic trainers and coaches encouraged their athletes to undergo a process known as carbo-loading in order to maximize energy levels for sporting events. Although the coaches didnt realize it, they were actually putting their athletes at a severe physical disadvantage. In addition to this, one of the most talked about fad diets of the decade was to only eat fruit before lunch. Inadequate protein consumption had the unintended effect of actually reducing athletic performance.

In addition to this, it had a negative effect on weight loss for dieters as well. Protein has fewer calories per gram than carbs or sugars, so proteins are the healthiest for the body to consume. Depleted glycogen stores deplete hormone production, including Testosterone and Human Growth Hormone. These hormones are vital both to optimal athletic performance, physiological repair, and weight loss outcomes. The idea during this period of time was that high-glycemic foods lead directly to increased levels of glycogen in the liver, and now we realize that the digestive system simply doesnt work that way. Because of this, an entire era of athletes and dieters suffered from fatigue and exhaustion. Although the concept of carbo-loading has been thoroughly discounted today, there are still may people who believe in its efficacy.

Control Pain Swiftly to Lower Cortisol Levels

Pain is the most pronounced determinant factor that leads to high levels of serum cortisol. A single migraine headache can boost cortisol release by many times the average baseline. Patients who suffer from long-term pain issues have been proven to experience symptoms of the aging process more quickly as a result of elevated cortisol levels. Physiological and cognitive fatigue sets in and the muscles begin to atrophy. In addition to this, the body begins to accumulate adipose fat around the midsection. He stomach becomes more prone to complications, and in many cases, diet becomes restricted as a result.

Also, the body becomes quicker to bruise and slower to heal. Full and restful sleep becomes nearly impossible. The immune system starts to break down because of cortisol-suppression, leading to increased complications and occurrence of many common medical ailments. The body begins to take on water weight, also referred to as edema. This is a short list of physiological complications caused by long term cortisol elevation. They are varied, yet entirely interconnected, and the only way to meaningfully resolve the majority of the issues is through efficient pain management.

Get In Bed Early to Stabilize Cortisol Rhythms

Ben Franklin was really on to something when he said that those who have proper sleeping habits are those most likely to find success both financially and academically. The time at which a person is most likely to experience the most rejuvenative sleep is between the hours of 10 and 3. There is even evidence that individuals who only sleep during this time are more refreshed than most individuals who stay up until 3 but sleep a full eight hours.

Another key concept to remember is that some activities of immune health do not initiate until an individual has rested for at least seven hours. This is why individuals who are significantly ill tend to sleep longer than eight hours a day. Individuals who wake up before they have slept a full eight hoursespecially younger men and womensuffer significantly in regard to immune health if they do not get a full nights rest.

Resolve Cortisol Issues by Restoring the Natural Circadian Rhythm

There are a number of methods that can be used in order to restore a proper Circadian Rhythm. The ultimate goal of this form of treatment is to bring back natural cortisol balance and optimization in order to redevelop a normal and healthy pattern of rest, rejuvenation, and activity. There are a number of herbal health products which can be of great benefit, but it is important to use them with caution and precision. One dietary aid which has been shown to lower cortisol is deglycerinized licorice.

Also, the root of the licorice plant has been shown to elevate cortisol levels also. By using both parts of the licorice plant, one can stabilize the cortisol release pattern by eating the licorice at night and the root in the morning. One medical compound that has been proven to provide balance to the circadian rhythm is phosphorylated serine. This compound has the ability to increase IgA levels which boost the immune system by optimizing the health of the mucous membranes. It is believed that this form of serine has the ability to alleviate high cortisol, thereby resolving immune issues caused by SigA suppression.

Consuming a dose of phosphorylated serine around 7pm can be a knockout remedy for restoring healthy sleep patterns by managing cortisol levels.

More Cortisol Today Means Less Cortisol in the Future

Although Cortisol is highly beneficial at controlling pain, it is detrimental to long term pain management to have elevated cortisol levels for long periods of time. Cortisol imbalance at an early age can lead to cortisol secretion problems later on. Medical decisions and life choices at a relatively early age can cause frequently elevated cortisol levels. If the body produces excess cortisol for too long, this can lead to the depletion of pregnenolone, a key component of cortisol. Pregnenolone is utilized by the body in order to create Estrogen, Testosterone, Cortisol, and other sexual hormones. When cortisol production gets out of hand, the body begins to make so much cortisol that other hormones suffer as a result, and as pregnenolone levels decline as a result of long-term high cortisol levels, then the body becomes less able to alleviate pain issues, actually creating greater levels of perceived pain as a result.

What Can I do to Preserve My Health and Maintain Cortisol Balance?

Each day of our lives we make a number of vital decisions whichalthough each is minor in and of itselfhave incredible effects on our long term health and vitality. Poor pain management, sleeping habits, posture, and stress response all have an adverse effect on long term health and hormone production. If we take control of our health and our lives today, we will not only be happier and healthier in the present, we will live longer and more fulfilling lives as a result. If we take the easy way out and refuse to change our ways, then the results can be disastrous to our health, and we will age at a rapid pace. Choosing to control cortisol production today preserves human vitality by ensuring that hormone production remains stable throughout our lives and that we live by natures rhythm as best we can.

Cortisol and Catabolism

When cortisol is released at too high of a rate, the body undergoes the processes related to catabolism more quickly. Catabolism is a term that describes processes within the body which break down cells, proteins, and tissues. When catabolism outpaces the rate at which the body rejuvenates itself, then the aging process accelerates and the body begins to break down. Catabolic processes break down bone, leading to reduced mineral density and osteoporosis. It also leads to vascular breakdown which can cause blood to pool in the extremities rather than circulate efficiently throughout the body. It also leads to the atrophy of the ligaments, muscles, and tendons which support the body.

When catabolic processes, especially those related to cortisol, become dominant, they cause a number of medical conditions that are detrimental to the body. These medical issues create a vicious cycle in which the body responds to negative physiological stimuli by producing even more cortisol. As cortisol levels reach unhealthy levels, they greatly increase the incidence of ocular issues such as cataracts and glaucoma. Cortisol is also linked to high blood pressure which increases the risk of blood clots, aneurisms, and cardiovascular disease.

It can also lead to exceptionally high intraocular pressure behind the retina, which, if left untreated, can result in migraine headaches or even blindness. Long term excess cortisol levels also contribute to poor skin health, causing the skin to bruise easy and heal slowly. Stretch marks are more prone to appear and the skin becomes thinner and more prone to cuts and scrapes.

How Can I Develop a Healthy Circadian Rhythm?

Again, there are a number of precautions you can take in order to balance your Circadian Rhythm and lower your cortisol levels to a healthy state. To live a healthier and happier life with balanced cortisol levels, follow these simple rules to the best of your ability:

1. Go to sleep earlyPreferably around ten at night

2. Eat a healthy breakfast which includes a significant amount of protein

3. Consume starches and sugars more cautiously

4. Make sure you eat a small, yet satiating meal at least once every five hours, which has a low glycemic index, and contains more protein than carbohydrates.

5. If you suffer from a gliaden sensitivity, avoid or limit gluten consumption

6. Sit up straight, and frequently take breaks from sitting in order to rest the muscles

7. Take care of pain quickly and effectively

8. Make efforts to remove or alleviate sources of stress from your life. Learn new patterns to cope or see a psychiatrist

Controlling Cortisol is a Key to Good Health

Cortisol is a necessary, yet potentially debilitating hormone that flows through each and every one of us. If you live your life meaningfully with respect for your body, you will live a longer and happier life, and you will maintain control over your cortisol production.

There is no reason to throw your life away over short term, ephemeral pleasures. Self-control and intelligent living can add years and years to your life.

Prevent yourself from the rapid onset of aging!

In this article, we will look at a huge contributing factor to the aging process. What can it inform us about the aging process and can it give us any hints on how to slow the ravage that time has on our health? The factor that we will learn more about today is cortisol, which is a hormone in control of a large number of the vital ongoing functions of our body. When levels of cortisol are too low or too high, the process of aging begins to accelerate.

The Adrenal Gland

The adrenal glands are responsible for cortisol secretion, and the adrenal glands are located above the kidneys. These glands are known for receiving the highest rates of blood flow among all of the other tissues of the body. Also, the adrenal glands contain the highest levels of Vitamin C: more than any other bodily tissues!

Both adrenals are made up of two different functional parts. The outside part, which is known as the cortex, releases hormone types of adenal steroids such as aldosterone, DHEA (precursor to sex hormones), and cortisol. The inner part, known as the medulla, releases adrenalin and norepinephrine. These last two hormones, also referred to as catecholamines, are well known as the €œflight/fight€ hormones.

The Significance of the Adrenal Circadian Rhythm

The adrenal glands do not release their steroidal hormones at a balanced rate throughout the day. Steroidal hormones are secreted in a cyclical manner. The highest rate of secretion is early in the day and the lowest level of secretion occurs at night. This daily cycle is referred to as the circadian rhythm. An abnormal circadian rhythm that causes adrenal hormones to be released in a suboptimal fashion can lead to negative effects upon numerous vital functions of the body, among which are immune system health and the production of sufficient levels of energy.

Production of Energy

Adrenal function which is abnormal can negatively affect the ability of your cells to make energy to perform the normal tasks of life. People who have trouble getting out of bed in the morning, have slumps of energy as they go through their day, or are simply just always exhausted often have undiagnosed abnormal rhythms of adrenal hormone.

Joint/Muscle Function

Insufficient levels of adrenal hormone and abnormal rhythms have a negative effect upon the normal healing of tissue. This impairment of the ability to repair muscle contributes to a higher incidence of tissue breakdown which eventually leads to joint and muscle injury or to chronic pain. It has been realized for a long time that taking too many steroids can lead to weakened hip muscles and shoulder girdle muscles. What is not quite so obvious is that the opposite idea is also true: bad posture (like sitting too much), also lead to weak shoulder and hip muscles. This promotes an excessive secretion of cortisol and catecholamines. But why? The Neanderthal-like position, where the hips and shoulders of flexed, is similar to the Fight/Flight response that a person assumes when fighting or running. This flexion position causes the body to secrete cortisol and catecholamines. Notice that there is a key focus in martial arts of keeping the spine straight, warding off the artificial energy boost that the catecholamines create.

Another aside in this discussion about rapid aging: the jutted chin position also leads to quicker aging, of the cognitive faculties in particular. When one's chin is positioned forward, or when the head is positioned in a downward tilt, spinal cord signals start to terminate midbrain; this form of short-circuiting that does not reach the cortex creates a mental state more conducive to reflexive responses that aid the fight/flight mechanism.

However, when the head is upright, impulses travel along the spinal cord and send messages to the brain to formulate proteins in the gray matter cells. If the signal is blocked from the cortex, then this stimulative effect does not occur and proteins in the brain start to dissipate. As they do, the negative charges held by the protein dissipate as well. As these negative charges fade, the brain cells become less negative, and as they reach action potential they may begin to fire off randomly. These uncontrolled neuron firings can cause seizures, pain, spasms, and tics.

...also, the jutted chin position tends to bring about quicker aging, of the cognitive faculties in particular.

As the cells of the brain slowly lose proteins, they begin to atrophy and shrink. This atrophy happens every day that the cells do not receive spinal cord stimulus. Essentially, this means that if you do not use your brain, you start to lose your brain. Martial arts regimens which involve total body contortion and movement also are beneficial to the brain for this reason. If one fails to move a particular muscle or joint, the corresponding cellular protein will begin to atrophy and become less functional. This also lends evidence to the efficacy of the chiropractic and osteopathic art of vertebrae mobilization, which will allow the vertebrae to move with more freedom.

Bone Health

Adrenal rhythm also determines an individual's ability to build up their bones. If nighttime cortisol levels remain high and morning levels do not come back to normal, bones do not heal very well, and the process of osteoporosis can occur even when one takes calcium supplements. In fact, higher levels of cortisol lead to the leaching of calcium from the bone which eventually causes bone demineralization. Consuming supplements of calcium during abnormal cortisol rhythms often produces no results and can sometimes even have harmful effects if leached bone calcium is deposited in an improper location.

Immune health and Cortisol Levels

High levels of cortisol inhibit the immune system. It also suppresses the immune reactions of the mucous membranes located across the body. High levels of cortisol lead to fewer surface antibodies on the mucous membranes, which are known as secretory IgAa. These SigAa assist the immune system by filtering viruses, bacteria, toxins, and plasmids. Then high levels of cortisol lead to a weakening of the defense mechanisms of the serosal and mucosal membranes, people are more likely to suffer from issues like earaches, pink eye, bronchitis, chronic coughing, sore throat, coughing, ulcers of the stomach, inflammation of the gallbladder, duodenal ulcers, vaginal infections, acid reflux, and bladder and kidney infections.

Study:

A girl we will name "Cynthia" went to see six doctors in the last month. She had received prescription for antibacterial eye drops from an ophthalmologist, cream to resolve her vaginal itching and burning from her gynecologist, cough medicine from her general practitioner, and H-2 blocker to medicate stomach acid build-up from a gastroenterologist. She had also been prescribed an antibiotic to alleviate her sinus infection from an ear, nose, and throat doctor, and finally she had gone to a rapid care clinic to acquire another antibiotic to sooth her experience of burning urination and alleviate the pressure upon her bladder. When she came to us, we told her that every one of her symtoms could be categorized as an irritation of the mucous membrane. After four weeks of corrective measures to resolve her incorrect cortisol levels and rhythm using herbs and diet, Cynthia had no more issues with any of her mucous membranes. She used herbs and diet successfully as natural alternatives to hormone replacement therapy.

Low Cortisol and Its Effect Upon the Immune System

Low cortisol has the opposite effect upon the immune system. Low levels of cortisol lead to over-response of the immune system. The immune system becomes way too aggressive and begins to attack not only antagonistic orgasms, but it also begins to develop reactions to benign agents of the environment. It can also begin to attack endogenous systems as well, hindering our body's ability to function properly. Autoimmune disorders like Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjorgrens syndrome (mucosal and physiological lack of fluids), and lupus can appear when one has low levels of cortisol.

Quality of Sleep

Quality cycles of REM sleep require low levels of cortisol during the nigh. High levels create a disruption of REM sleep which causes sleep to be less refreshing and restorative. It leaves a person feeling fatigued and groggy as they awaken in the morning. Fatigue upon waking is often misinterpreted by both doctor and patient as biological depression. It this depression does not react to medications that are directed toward norepinephrine and serotonin metabolism, it may be time to consider evaluating levels of nighttime

cortisol.

Study 2:

A dramatic case of how a disrupted circadian rhythm can affect an individual is vividly illustrated by the case of Melissa. She was a child who confused parents and teachers because of the unpredictable extremes of her behavior and the vast variations in her grades which ranged from passing to failing even in the same subject. They thought perhaps she was merely unmotivated, but psych testing showed that she was an extraordinarily motivated girl. Everyone attempted to make sense of her pattern of passing and failing grades, attempting to attribute it to the personality or style of the teacher, the gener of the teacher, or even a potential rebellious streak. Things only became worse when she entered high school. Her parents told us that it was incredibly difficult to rouse Melissa from bed in the morning. When she did finally get up, she appeared lethargic and incredibly irritable. The report card for her first semester of math class showed that she was often late for class, always forgot supplies, did not talk in class, and rarely turned in her homework. Strangely though, a couple of weeks after the next semester began, the instructor told her parents Melissa was among the smartest mathematics students that the instructor had ever had the opportunity to teach. Also, she seemed to love helping others that had trouble with math. Did Melissa change classes? She did not. She was working from the same textbook and taking instruction from the same teacher. The difference was that her first semester class was the first class of the day. She went to math class after lunch. In the second semester, Melissa now took gym first thing in the morning. The same issues began to appear. She was not participating; she kept forgetting her uniform. A cortisol test revealed that her morning levels of cortisol were only ½ of the amount the she required to be functional at that time of the morning. A lot of adults that have those low levels of cortisol are able to apply for disability because of their inability to be functional when working. In Melissa's case, being woken up and asked to get dressed was like awakening a normal person at two in the morning and expecting them to be completely functional. At noon, Melissa's level of cortisol was in a normal range. Correction of her cortisol rhythm so that it peaked in the morning and was at its lowest around midnight caused incredible changes to develop in her performance, energy, and personality. By the beginning of her sophomore year, she was going to meetings of the student council before school officially even began.

For exactly how long did Melissa suffer from a reversed cortisol rhythm? Her mom and dad told us that she was an amazing baby. She would not become irritable at night and did not want to go to bed at 8 like other babies. She also would never be terribly unhappy in the morning either, unlike her younger sister. It should be noted that Melissa's mom worked third shift at a very high-stress job when she was pregnant with her daughter. It is incredibly possible that Melissa was born with her circadian cortisol rhythm out of sync.

Regeneration of the Skin

The skin undergoes regeneration mostly at night. High levels of cortisol lead to skin the does not regenerate as effectively. A standard cortisol rhythm is a requirement to maintain healthy skin. It is especially important in preventing such conditions as acne in adulthood.

People that have skin conditions often have high levels of copper and low levels of zinc. Excess levels of copper cause norepinephrine and adrenalin to be synthesized from dopamine. Dopamine is the reward chemical of the brain and is linked to good feelings and is active during positive stimulus and is deprived through negative stimulus. This elevated level of adrenaline normally leads to an increased level of cortisol. Lower levels of dopamine increase risk of early Alzheimer's and Parkinson's as well.

Skin conditions like eczema are often correlated with intolerance to gliaden, which is a compound found in gluten grains. This issue is also made worse by the presence of high levels of copper.

Cortisol and Thyroid Function

Cellular levels of cortisol control the activation of the thyroid hormone. Adrenal hormonal imbalance often leads to symptoms associated with hypothyroidism like problems losing weight, decreased body temperature, and fatigue. If Thyroid hormonal treatment only results in temporary yet significant relief of hypothyroidism symptoms, check your cortisol rhythm and levels.

Stress and Gluten Intolerance.

In many patients, the digestive develops inflammation within a half hour of eating grains that contain gluten, such as rye, spelt, barley, and oats. This intestinal response has been compared to have a sore throat that was thirty feet long. We call this condition colic when it occurs in infants. It is assumed that children eventually stop being allergic to gluten. In reality, the body just learns to react to this inflammation with a secretion of cortisol. In a lot of patients, a biological substance that is similar to morphine is also emitted in an effort to alleviate the inflammation and hide the pain.

This substance is then absorbed into the blood where it is transported up to the brain. Here, it stimulates receptors for morphine and a person can develop a physiological addiction to dairy and grain products that produce the inflammatory response. If one watches the patterns of behavior and symptoms of people who eat dairy and grain products, he or she can take note of the wildly apparent up and down phases of drug use and drug withdrawal. These similarities become even more apparent when the individual attempts to stop eating gluten or dairy.

High Levels of Cortisol and Low Levels of Libido

When we use up a lot of cortisol, we hinder our ability to produce other hormones. To produce extra cortisol in the body to respond to inflammation and pain, your body converts energy normally reserved for the manufacture of sex hormones into the development of more cortisol. Progesterone in particular is singled out for cannibalization so that more cortisol can be manufactured.

This lower level of progesterone causes us to have less progesterone than the male hormone testosterone or the feminine hormone estrogen, and this leads to issues of testosterone dominance and estrogen dominance. Both of these issues are connected with a higher level of aggression, violence, and irritability. Dominance of feminine hormones can also lead to uterine fibroids(benign uterine tumors), PMS, and higher risks for breast and uterine cancers, in addition to clots and heavy flow. Deficiency of progesterone causes one to be at greater risk for miscarriage.

The hormone progesterone is also vitally essential to maintain testosterone so that it does not transform into DHT (which is an essential male hormone which can cause major issues when it is present in the body in excess). Low levels of progesterone will eventually lead to low levels of testosterone, balding, high levels DHT, prostate enlargement and decreased libido.

Decreased levels of testosterone and cortisol also can make migraines occur more frequently.

What Causes Imbalance of Cortisol?

Among the factors and activities that increase levels of cortisol are:

1. Not eating breakfast.

2. Missing meals

3. Consuming a greater value of carbs than proteins over the course of five hours.

4. Being positioned in a flexed or slouched posture in which the chin is pushed forward.

5. Going to sleep after 10 pm

6. Undergoing emotional stress

7. Experiencing pain

Increased levels of cortisol and an enhanced flight/fight response are useful adaptations when one experiences infrequent stress or brief bouts of stress. The problem arises when one begins to experience chronic stress and cortisol levels rise often and stay at elevated levels for too long. When this occurs, precursor hormones begin to be used up. After a long period of elevated cortisol, the body may lose its ability to generate cortisol effectively. The experience of a low level of cortisol is how our body makes us slow down. Beneficially, low levels of cortisol can also have an effect on the aging process, slowing down aging processes associated with high cortisol levels. The problem is that low cortisol levels present a separate list of processes which enhance the aging process, such as making one more susceptible to diseases of the autoimmune system.

Means by Which to Slow Down the Process of Aging:

Have protein for breakfast by 8am and again every 5 waking hours.

Levels of cortisol begin to climb after a person does not eat after five hours. As we fast in our sleep, levels of cortisol rise until we are stirred to rise from bed with energy. If an individual eats a meal after 8pm, then the level of peak cortisol may occur later than would be desirable, and easy rousing may become more difficult. They will be more likely to feel tired when they wake up and may find that they lack a proper functional level of energy before much later in the day.

On the other hand, if a person does not eat by 8am or so, the morning level of cortisol continues to elevate and may leave the normal range. When this occurs at any point in the day it becomes difficult to bring cortisol back into a low range suitable for rapid eye movement sleep. For this reason, fatigue tends to be self-perpetuation.

Some people who have a tendency to miss breakfast do it thoughtlessly as a means to induce a brief bout of starvation so that cortisol is secreted. Doing this elevates low levels of cortisol to normal. The problem with this method is that starvation has the effect of adrenalin stimulation, which also contributes to physical deterioration.

Remember that there will be interruptions to sleep is we do not have an adequate store of glycogen to fuel the brain the whole night. Stores of glycogen are restored after every incidence in which we consume protein or eat a meal with a low glycemic index. Eating protein in five hour intervals is crucial. Each time that we neglect to eat a meal, stores of glycogen within the liver become more depleted. This also occurs when we miss a meal or over-consume carbohydrates during any period of five hours Habitual meal skipping and the consumption of excess sugar and starch can lead to sleep disruption. Among people who have totally eradicated their glycogen supply in this manner, it may be necessary to consume a small snack around time for bed for a number of days, or perhaps weeks, until stores of glycogen in the liver are restored so that the brain has enough nutrition to make it through the night.

There is a lot of confusion over which foods boost stores of glycogen. This confusion originated in the 70s when coaches commonly encouraged athletes to load up on carbohydrates before they participated in athletic events. In fact, one of the most common diet fads during this era was to only consumer fruit before lunchtime. The practice of consuming inadequate amounts of protein actually had the opposite effect, leading to depletion of glycogen and contributing to negative alterations of the cortisol rhythm. Hypotheses during this era that foods that were highly glycemic would lead to increased stores of glycogen were incorrect, and a whole generation of dieters and athletes were plagued with exhaustion and fatigue in consequence. There is still a belief in carbo-loading with effects athletes and patients today.

Quickly Control Pain

The occurrence of pain is the single most significant thing that can happen that spikes levels of cortisol in the body. One migraine can lead secreted levels of cortisol to become elevated to multiple times the normal baseline. It should be obvious that those who suffer from chronic pain will quickly start to show symptoms and signs that represent an excess of cortisol. Mental and physical fatigue occur, patients gain weight around their middles, and reports of muscle weakness abound (more weakness than is to be expected from merely a lack of physical activity, alone). Quick bruising, digestive complications, restless sleep, bloating, and a higher instance of infections of the mucous membranes (bronchitis, sinusitis, bladder infection, etc.) also occur. Chronic pain sufferers can not find alleviation from these symptoms until their pain is taken care of.

Fall Asleep by Ten at Night

Ben Franklin truly understood the importance of following the natural rhythm of the body when he suggested that those who go to sleep early and wake up early find themselves more wise, healthy, and wealthy. An individual is more likely to feel refreshed after five hours rest between ten pm and three a.m. than with five hours or more of sleep that does not begin until three am.

Also, remember that some beneficial functions of the immune system do not begin until a person has rested for seven or more hours without disruption. The immune system suffers when sleep deprivation takes its toll.

Fix Your Circadian Rhythm

After it has been established that one's circadian rhythm has been disrupted, there are multiple approaches to therapy that a patient may choose. The goal of therapy regimens is to correct inopportune elevations and depressions of cortisol during different periods of the day. Herbal supplements can be of assistance, but they must be used precisely and carefully. Deglycerinized licorice has the effect of lowering cortisol, but whole root of licorice boosts cortisol. The compound phosphorylated serine has the effect of elevating depressed levels of IgA (which controls mucosal immunity) back to baseline. It does this presumably through the lowering of cortisol which leads to the suppression of SigA.

Taking phosphorylated serine at 6 pm in an effort to lower elevated nighttime cortisol can be the secret recipe to a perfect night of sleep.

Elevated Cortisol Today Leads to a Lack of Cortisol Later

There is an unfortunate pattern that eventually leads to an imbalance of cortisol later in life. Lifestyle patterns and choices today can lead to prolonged or periodic high levels of cortisol. After a period of time, the overspending of cortisol leads to a theft of pregnenolone. This hormone is the progenitor hormone from which cortisol and other sex hormones are created. When too much cortisol is summoned, the body subverts pregnenolone from its standard function creating testosterone, estrogen, and DHEA to manufacture additional cortisol.

In every single moment in our lives, we make decisions based on our posture, bedtime, control of pain, and response to stress whether our bodies will manufacture unhealthy stress hormones or vital sexual hormones. If we choose stress, we choose to age more rapidly. If we choose sexual hormones, we will feel younger and healthier.

When too much cortisol is emitted, the speed of catabolism increases. Catabolism is a function of the body which proceeds to break down tissues in every area of the body. This effect dramatically increases the speed of aging. Processes of catabolism weaken bone, blood vessels, muscles, and ligaments. One of the cyclical effects of catabolism is that it encourages bleeding, bone diseases, and poor posture, which further stimulates cortisol production. Excess levels of cortisol also contribute to glaucoma and cataracts and can lead to dangerously high blood sugar, intraocular pressure, and blood pressure. Secreting an excess level of cortisol also weakens the skin which leads to thin skin, easily bruised skin, and skin prone to stretch marks. High levels of cortisol at night disrupt normal REM sleep and cause us to remain fatigued and groggy long after we awaken.

Low levels of cortisol has a negative effect too. Low levels of cortisol when we awaken make it difficult to pop out of bed as we were meant to do. Any time that cortisol lowers below baseline in any period of the day it leads to a slump of energy.

It is not uncommon for people to often unconsciously and sometimes consciously seek an energy boost to produce an increase in the level of active cortisol. Among activities that raise levels of cortisol are consuming a starch or sugar carbohydrate snack, skipping a meal, or undergoing an activity which elevates levels of cortisol, included behaviors which are quite risky. We feel that inappropriate behavior is often an adaptive measure which serves to elevate levels of cortisol and adrenalin to a baseline or greater state in order to make up for having cortisol levels that are too low.

The problem is that many of these tactics which lead to an elevated level of cortisol cause us to produce too much cortisol and propagate an imbalance.

Efforts to correct abnormal cortisol levels and rhythms are quite effective.

People should be happy to find that belly fat, lethargy, and stretch marks can all be alleviated when cortisol rhythms are corrected. Irritation and/or infection of the mucous membranes can often be resolved just by going by through these lifestyle changes:

1. Fall asleep by ten pm.

2. Eat protein by 7 am

3. Eat less starch and sugar

4. Consume meals that feature low glycemic index once every five hours. For example, eat meals in which quick-digesting starches and sugars do not exceed the mass of meats that are digested slowly such as eggs, poultry, and fish. For better effects, entirely skip starches and sugars (especially gluten grains) and choose vegetables that are uncooked or lightly cooked.

5. If you have a gluten intolerance avoid all grains. Give children grains of sprouts to delay or avoid gluten intolerance.

6. Sustain proper posture and do not sit or enter the flexion position for prolonged periods of time.

7. Manage pain.

8. Keep your stress in check. (by following the initial seven rules it should be much easier to accomplish guideline eight.)

Maintaining a standard circadian rhythm will help you preserve precursors of adrenalin and cortisol, leading to a marked delay of the process of aging. Restoring a disrupted circadian rhythm to normal and restoring reserves of adrenal hormones can encourage a reversal of many issues that a patient may feel they will be plagued with for the rest of their lives.

Article comes from the NOHA NEWS, Volume 27, Number One

Winter issue pages three to six.

Winter 2002, pages 3-6.