Essential Information on Cortisol: The Hormone TikTok Users Say You Need to Regulate
Cortisol has become a significant topic in wellness discussions recently.
TikTok is filled with influencers promoting tips to balance cortisol levels or selling products that claim to improve your cortisol situation. The catch? Most of these influencers are not qualified medical professionals.
“The way it’s being discussed can lead to the impression that nearly everyone has a hormone imbalance,” says Dr. Karen Tang, a gynecologist, in an interview with YSL News regarding the social media conversation around cortisol. “It’s a brilliant marketing tactic because many people face issues like fatigue, weight loss challenges, and mood fluctuations. This approach makes it seem applicable to nearly everyone.” However, the reality is that not everyone has a genuine hormone imbalance needing medical intervention.
The first step, according to Kang, is to consult with a medical professional who can assess if there is indeed an imbalance that needs correction. If it turns out you do have an imbalance, here’s what you should know about cortisol levels.
What Role Does Cortisol Play?
Cortisol is the primary stress hormone in the body, as noted by WebMD. It performs several essential functions, such as managing blood pressure and blood sugar, regulating sleep patterns, controlling inflammation, and overseeing the use of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins by the body—all crucial for tackling and managing stress.
What Indicators Suggest a Cortisol Imbalance?
If you’ve come across TikTok content discussing “moon face” and cortisol levels, it’s important to understand that significant cortisol imbalances are uncommon. According to the Endocrine Society, this condition affects only about 10 to 15 individuals per million annually, mostly cisgender women aged 20 to 50.
“Moon face” refers to a rounder facial appearance caused by fat accumulation, which can result from obesity or Cushing’s syndrome, as stated by WebMD. Other signs of Cushing’s syndrome include a noticeable hump on the back, distinct pink or purple stretch marks on the abdomen, fatigue, and excessive facial hair growth, according to Dr. Tang.
How to Regulate Cortisol Levels?
The symptoms mentioned may indicate that you should consult a doctor about steps to normalize your cortisol levels.
“However, for most individuals, while cortisol spikes in reaction to stress or sleep deprivation, blood tests typically reveal normal cortisol readings,” explains Tang. “Thus, treatment may not be necessary in these situations.”
In such cases, Tang suggests focusing on stress management strategies, maintaining a balanced diet, ensuring regular sleep, and engaging in physical activity to keep blood pressure and blood sugar levels stable.
“If you notice a significant change in your health that affects your well-being, such as unexpected weight gain or troubling mood changes during perimenopause, it’s crucial to speak with your doctor for an evaluation,” emphasizes Tang.