Serum Cortisol
Hormones marker
Cortisol
Serum Cortisol
Category: Hormones
Unit: nmol/L
Primary stress hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. Regulates metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure. Levels follow a diurnal pattern (highest in the morning).
PED Notes
Elevated by intense training, caloric deficit, and psychological stress. Chronically elevated cortisol is catabolic and impairs recovery. Some AAS (especially Trenbolone) can increase cortisol-related symptoms. Timing of blood draw significantly affects results -- morning fasting samples are standard.
Supplements (for chronically elevated cortisol):
- Ashwagandha -- 300-600mg/day (5% withanolides, evening/post-workout, reduces cortisol 20-30%)
- Rhodiola Rosea -- 200-400mg/day (morning, stress resilience)
- Magnesium Glycinate -- 400mg before bed
Lifestyle:
- Optimise sleep (7-9h)
- Manage psychological stress
References:
- Wankhede, S., Langade, D., Joshi, K., Sinha, S. R., & Bhattacharyya, S. (2015). Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12, 43. DOI: 10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9
- Lopresti, A. L., Drummond, P. D., & Smith, S. J. (2019). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study examining the hormonal and vitality effects of ashwagandha in aging, overweight males. American Journal of Men's Health, 13(2), 1557988319835985. DOI: 10.1177/1557988319835985
- Veronese, N., Demurtas, J., Pesolillo, G., et al. (2020). Magnesium and health outcomes: An umbrella review. European Journal of Nutrition, 59(1), 263-272. DOI: 10.1007/s00394-019-01905-w
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Reference Ranges
Standard Range
110 - 550 nmol/L