How Stress Cortisol Affects the Body

18/03/2025

Listen "How Stress Cortisol Affects the Body"

Episode Synopsis

We all experience stress, but what happens inside our bodies when we’re under pressure? At the center of it all is cortisol, often called the “stress hormone.” From regulating metabolism and blood pressure to influencing our sleep and even digestion, cortisol plays a critical role in our health. So, what can we do to keep cortisol levels in check? And what does the latest research say about managing cortisol for better health? On this episode of the Healthier You podcast, Dr. Ashlee Williams speaks with Dr. Christina Lee, a board-certified psychiatrist at Kaiser Permanente, about how cortisol is released and regulated, how stress affects the body and mind, and practical ways to manage stress and keep cortisol in check.