How Cortisol Affects Your Sleep

Paula Gallagher on
Cortisol levels can cause insomnia and other sleep issues.

Do you have trouble falling asleep and can’t figure out why? The hormone cortisol may be at play. Cortisol, also known as the "stress hormone," is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress and other factors. It plays a crucial role in the body's stress response and helps regulate various physiological processes, including sleep.

Under normal circumstances, cortisol levels follow a natural daily pattern, with higher levels in the morning to help wake you up and lower levels in the evening to promote sleep. However, chronic stress, certain medical conditions, or disruptions to the body's natural rhythms can lead to an imbalance in cortisol levels, which can impact sleep in several ways.

Different Ways Cortisol Impacts Sleep

Insomnia

Elevated cortisol levels, particularly at night, can interfere with your ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. Stressful situations or anxiety can trigger the release of cortisol, making it difficult to relax and quiet your mind for sleep.

Fragmented sleep

Increased cortisol levels can cause sleep fragmentation, leading to frequent awakenings throughout the night. This can result in a poorer quality of sleep and leave you feeling tired and unrested.

Delayed sleep onset

Cortisol is involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, and disruptions in its normal pattern can delay the onset of sleep. Higher cortisol levels in the evening can keep you more alert and make it harder to fall asleep at your desired bedtime.

REM sleep suppression

Cortisol has been found to suppress rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is the stage of sleep associated with dreaming and cognitive restoration. Reduced REM sleep can negatively impact memory, learning, and emotional regulation.

Strategies That Can Help Regulate Cortisol

Regulating cortisol levels can help promote better overall health and improve sleep. To maintain healthy cortisol levels, it's particularly important to manage stress effectively. Adopting relaxation techniques, practicing good sleep hygiene, engaging in regular exercise, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle can help regulate cortisol levels and improve sleep quality.

Stress management

Chronic stress is a significant contributor to elevated cortisol levels, so engaging in stress management techniques can be effective in reducing cortisol. Consider incorporating practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, mindfulness, or other activities you find relaxing and enjoyable.

Regular exercise

Physical activity has been shown to help regulate cortisol levels. Aim for regular exercise, which can include aerobic activities, strength training, or any form of physical activity that you enjoy. However, avoid intense exercise close to bedtime, as it can increase cortisol levels and interfere with sleep.

Establish a consistent sleep routine

Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help regulate cortisol levels. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Create a relaxing pre-sleep routine to signal your body that it's time to wind down. Avoid stimulating activities and bright screens before bedtime, as they can inhibit the natural decrease in cortisol.

Improve your sleep environment

Create a sleep-friendly environment that promotes relaxation. Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Use comfortable bedding and a supportive mattress. Consider using techniques such as white noise or calming music to help you relax and drift off to sleep.

Balanced diet

A healthy and balanced diet can contribute to cortisol regulation. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol, as they can disrupt sleep and impact cortisol levels. Instead, focus on a nutrient-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Social support

More and more research shows the beneficial impact of good relationships on your health. Building and maintaining strong social connections can help buffer the impact of stress and reduce cortisol levels. Spend time with supportive friends and family, join social groups or clubs, and cultivate positive relationships.

Relaxation techniques

Engage in relaxation techniques throughout the day to help reduce cortisol. Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and aromatherapy are some techniques that can promote relaxation and lower stress levels.

Seek professional help

If chronic stress or high cortisol levels persist despite self-help strategies, it may be beneficial to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Our Village Green nutritionists can evaluate your specific situation and provide further personalized recommendations. Cortisol testing is also available.

Supplements

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to help the body cope with stress. It may help reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation. Research has shown that ashwagandha supplementation can help improve stress response and reduce anxiety.

Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola is another adaptogenic herb that may help regulate cortisol levels and support stress adaptation. It has been studied for its potential to reduce stress-related fatigue, enhance mood, and improve overall well-being.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Some studies suggest that omega-3 supplementation can help modulate cortisol levels and improve mood.

Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that plays a role in cellular function, including the regulation of cortisol. It has been studied for its potential to support a healthy stress response and reduce cortisol levels, especially with athletes.

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a role in various physiological processes, including stress response. It can help relax the muscles and promote relaxation. Research shows that magnesium supplementation may help modulate cortisol levels and improve sleep quality.

It may take time to find the best strategies that work for you, to manage your cortisol. Consistency and a comprehensive approach are key to achieving balanced cortisol levels and promoting better sleep and overall well-being.

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