The effects of stress hormone on the body

The stress hormone involved in your ability to react to stressful situations is called cortisol and is released by the adrenal glands . Understanding the role and effects of the stress hormone on your body is essential to better manage stress .

How does the stress hormone work?

The stress hormone , called cortisol , is released in response to situations perceived by the body as stressful. This process is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system, which acts as a feedback mechanism in the body.

When you are faced with a stressful situation , your brain sends a signal to the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that responds by secreting a hormone called corticosteroid-releasing hormone (CRH), which then stimulates the pituitary gland (a gland located under the brain) to release another hormone, adrenocorticotropin (ACTH).

The latter then travels through the bloodstream to the adrenal glands , located above the kidneys. These glands produce and release cortisol , the stress hormone . Cortisol then exerts its effects on various organs and tissues in the body to prepare the body to cope with the stressful situation .

Once stress decreases, the level of stress hormone in the blood also decreases . This allows the body to return to a state of rest and recovery and ends the stress response.

What are the impacts of stress hormones on the body?

The impacts of stress hormone on the body are numerous. Here are some of the main impacts of stress hormone :

• Impacts on the cardiovascular system:

The stress hormone can increase blood pressure and cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels). High levels of cortisol can also contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

• Impacts on the immune system:

Cortisol can weaken the body and make it more vulnerable to disease and infection. Thus, the stress hormone can increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases by disrupting the balance of the immune system .

• Impacts on the digestive system:

 Gastric mucus production (helps protect the stomach lining from acidic substances) may be decreased by the stress hormone . In addition, it can increase stomach acidity and thus contribute to digestive disorders such as heartburn and ulcers. High cortisol levels can also increase the risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn's disease.

• Impacts on the nervous system:

The stress hormone can affect brain function by altering the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine , which are responsible for mood, sleep, and cognition. High levels of cortisol can therefore cause problems with concentration , memory , and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.

How to lower stress hormones?

There are several natural solutions to lower stress hormone levels in the body. Here are the most effective ones:

• Practice relaxing activities :

The more relaxed you are, the less cortisol your body produces. Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga are techniques that can help reduce the level of cortisol, the stress hormone . In addition, doing activities you enjoy, such as listening to music, reading a book, taking a bath, or spending time with friends and family, can help reduce your stress .

• Exercise regularly:

Regular physical activity can help reduce stress hormones and produce endorphins , which are neurotransmitters associated with well-being and relaxation .

• Have a balanced diet:

Avoid foods high in added sugars and fats . These can contribute to increased stress levels. Instead, opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats .

• Taking care of your sleep:

Getting quality sleep is necessary for regulating the stress hormone . It is essential that you get enough sleep every night and adopt a sleep routine .

• Avoid stimulants:

Limit the consumption of stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine, as they can worsen stress and increase the production of the stress hormone in the body.

• Using Hovie Relax Oil :

Hovie Relax Oil is specially designed to reduce stress and anxiety levels , providing overall relaxation of the body and mind. Indeed, by combining organic hemp seed oil, organic olive oil and bergamot, it offers an effective combination to promote a state of relaxation . THC-free CBD works by activating serotonin receptors (5-HT1A) and offers a feeling of calm and serenity , while bergamot is known for its anxiolytic properties .

• Consume the relaxing infusion of hovie:

Hovie Relax Infusion combines the soothing benefits of THC-free CBD with aromatic plants such as lemongrass, lavender, sage, and coriander (insert article link ingredients). It offers a moment of relaxation and comfort , ideal for combating temporary or moderate stress . This infusion can be consumed hot or cold to soothe the mind and body , and works in conjunction with Hovie Relax Oil to reduce the production of the stress hormone .