How to Lower High Cortisol Levels: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Constant stress affects more than your mood—it impacts a crucial hormone: cortisol. Learning what is cortisol and how to reduce cortisol can transform your wellbeing.

What is Cortisol?

Cortisol meaning: Your body’s primary stress hormone that regulates blood sugar, inflammation, and immune function.

The issue: Chronic stress keeps cortisol hormone elevated, creating imbalance.

High cortisol symptoms:

  • Persistent fatigue
  • Unexplained weight gain
  • Sleep disruption
  • Emotional instability

Understanding cortisol function helps you recognize when intervention is needed.

Why High Cortisol Symptoms Require Treatment

Balanced CortisolElevated Cortisol Levels
Sustained energyConstant fatigue
Stable weightWeight fluctuations
Quality sleepInsomnia
Stable moodAnxiety & irritability
Strong immunityIncreased illness

Long-term risks of high cortisol levels: hypertension, diabetes, hormonal dysfunction.

How to Lower Cortisol

1. Sleep Well — 7–9 hours nightly resets cortisol naturally

2. Eat Smart — Salmon, greens, berries, whole grains support balance

3. Move Gently — Regular exercise without overtraining

4. Practice Breathing — Meditation, yoga, deep breathing reduce stress

5. Limit Stimulants — Reduce caffeine and sugar intake

Testing your cortisol levels

How to check cortisol levels: A simple cortisol test from your doctor determines your levels and guides treatment.

Avoid self-medicating: Don’t rely on online claims about supplements to lower cortisol or cortisol supplement products. Always consult your doctor before taking anything, as supplements can interact with medications or mask serious conditions.

Professional Support Available

Our Internal Medicine Department offers:

  • Comprehensive cortisol test analysis
  • Root cause identification for high cortisol
  • Personalized treatment plans
  • Ongoing support to decrease cortisol levels

Take Action Today

Mastering cortisol management empowers you to reclaim control over stress, fatigue, and long-term health risks like hypertension and diabetes. By prioritizing sleep, balanced nutrition, gentle exercise, and professional testing, you can restore hormonal balance for sustained energy and well-being.​

At Burjeel by the Beach Clinic, Saadiyat, our Internal Medicine specialist offer comprehensive cortisol testing, root cause analysis, and personalized treatment plans to effectively lower elevated levels.​​

Don’t let chronic stress dictate your health—schedule your appointment with our expert team today for tailored support and proactive care. Book now at Burjeel by the Beach Clinic, Saadiyat Island.