What is Cortisol?

Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced in the adrenal glands (small glands adjacent to the kidneys). The most important roles of cortisol in the human body are regulating blood pressure and cardiovascular function. It also regulates the body's use of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. The excretion of cortisol increases when physical or psychological stress is placed upon the body.

How Cortisol Affects your Training

High levels of cortisol can change the body from an anabolic (muscle building) to a catabolic (muscle wasting) state. In order to keep cortisol levels low, you must keep yourself in a positive mood. Try not to get stressed out over things that can be accomplished without needing to worry. Also, knowing your body well enough can also help you in the battle against high cortisol levels. Be smart when working out or working at a physically active job. Know how your body reacts to certain situations.

How to Lower Your Cortisol Levels

There are many different ways to lower cortisol levels, ranging from coping with stressful events better to taking medicine to fight high cortisol levels. High cortisol levels are normally present in our bodies from the stress that we place on ourselves. To lower your cortisol levels, you must lower your stress.

Eating small snacks or meals throughout the day will give your body energy so that it will not have to rely on muscle tissue for energy. Your energy should come from the food that you eat and fat stores.

Even though cortisol levels are not more important than diet and training, they should still be taken seriously. In the fight for muscle mass, every little thing helps. Lowering high cortisol levels will make your body less catabolic, causing your body to be in a more anabolic state.