Skip to main content

Finally, Some Relief! Holistic Solutions for Women’s Top 4 Pain Points

Pain is an intricate sensation that affects millions of individuals worldwide, but it's particularly prevalent among women. Various factors, including biological, hormonal, and social aspects, contribute to this phenomenon. In the realm of healthcare, managing pain is a crucial aspect of enhancing quality of life, particularly for women who often experience unique and multifaceted forms of pain. Beyond conventional treatments, holistic approaches offer promising avenues for alleviating women's pain by addressing its underlying causes and promoting overall well-being. From back pain and headaches to arthritis and chronic pelvic pain, women encounter various types of discomfort influenced by biological, hormonal, and social factors. In this article, we delve into the significance of holistic practices in managing women's pain, exploring the effectiveness of herbal remedies, supplements, and lifestyle modifications in providing natural relief. By embracing holistic approaches,...

Conquering Cortisol: The Ultimate Guide for Women's Hormonal Health



Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is released by the adrenal gland in response to stress. Responsible for maintaining glucose levels and regulating metabolism, it plays an important role in the body. However, when cortisol levels are elevated or chronically high, it can have a detrimental effect on overall health and wellness. This effect is especially pronounced in women, who experience unique challenges related to hormonal fluctuations. In this article, we will explore the negative impact of elevated cortisol levels on women’s health, as well as highlight the best herbs and supplements for achieving balanced cortisol levels.



Signs and Symptoms of Elevated Cortisol Levels


High cortisol levels can manifest in a variety of ways, from psychological symptoms to physical changes in the body. Some common signs and symptoms of elevated cortisol levels include:



Weight Gain


Cortisol can cause an increase in visceral fat, which is the type of fat that accumulates around the organs in the abdominal cavity. This type of fat is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions.


Mood Changes 


Excess cortisol can lead to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression. This is because cortisol affects the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.


Elevated cortisol levels can affect the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain in several ways. Cortisol is known to act on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is a complex system involving the release of hormones that regulate stress response. When cortisol levels are chronically elevated, it can lead to disruption of the HPA axis, affecting the balance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.


Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. Studies have shown that high cortisol levels can lead to a decrease in serotonin levels. This can result in symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns.


Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with feelings of pleasure and reward. Cortisol has been shown to affect dopamine signaling in the brain, leading to a decrease in dopamine levels. This can cause symptoms such as decreased motivation, concentration, and a decreased ability to experience pleasure.


In addition to affecting serotonin and dopamine, elevated cortisol levels can also impact other neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and GABA. Norepinephrine is involved in the body’s stress response and can cause symptoms such as anxiety and increased heart rate when levels are chronically elevated. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate anxiety and stress responses. High cortisol levels have been shown to decrease GABA receptor activity, leading to increased anxiety and stress.


Fatigue 


Although cortisol is known as the “stress hormone,” it can also cause fatigue when levels are chronically high because cortisol disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.


Low Libido


Elevated cortisol levels can lead to a decrease in sex drive or difficulty with sexual performance because cortisol competes for the same receptor binding sites as estrogen and progesterone.


Immune System Suppression 


High cortisol levels can suppress the immune system, making it more difficult to fight off infections and illnesses.


Digestive Issues


Elevated cortisol levels can cause digestive issues in several ways. Cortisol is known to play a role in the body's "fight or flight" response to stress, and when cortisol levels are chronically elevated, it can lead to chronic stress, which can affect the digestive system.


One way that elevated cortisol levels can cause digestive issues is by decreasing the production of digestive enzymes and stomach acid. Cortisol inhibits the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which is necessary for the breakdown of food. When there is not enough stomach acid, food can sit in the stomach for longer periods of time and can contribute to symptoms such as bloating, indigestion, and discomfort.


In addition to affecting stomach acid production, cortisol can affect gut motility, or the movement of food through the digestive tract. Cortisol has been shown to slow down gut motility, which can lead to constipation and other digestive issues.


Another way that elevated cortisol levels can affect the digestive system is by altering the balance of gut bacteria. Research has suggested that cortisol can affect the growth of certain types of bacteria in the gut, leading to a dysbiosis, or an imbalance of gut bacteria. Dysbiosis can contribute to symptoms such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea.


Finally, elevated cortisol levels can affect the intestinal barrier, which is a protective layer that lines the gut. The intestinal barrier helps to prevent harmful substances such as bacteria and toxins from entering the bloodstream. When cortisol levels are chronically high, it can lead to increased intestinal permeability, or “leaky gut,” which allows harmful substances to pass through the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream. This can contribute to a range of digestive issues and can also lead to inflammation in the body.



Skin Changes


Elevated cortisol levels can cause skin changes such as acne, thinning skin, and stretch marks.



The Negative Impact of Elevated Cortisol Levels on Women’s Health


Elevated cortisol levels can have a significant impact on women’s health. In addition to the symptoms listed above, high cortisol levels are linked to several health conditions that are more common in women.



Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 


PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects up to 20% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body, which can lead to irregular periods, infertility, and other health problems. Research has shown that high cortisol levels are associated with an increased risk of PCOS.


Menopause Symptoms 


Menopause is a natural process that occurs in women as they age, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. It is characterized by a decline in estrogen levels, which can cause a variety of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Cortisol can exacerbate these symptoms by disrupting the body’s natural hormonal balance.


Anxiety and Depression 


Women are twice as likely as men to experience anxiety and depression, and elevated cortisol levels may play a role in this disparity. Cortisol can affect the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters that are associated with mood regulation.



Best Herbs and Supplements for Achieving Balanced Cortisol Levels


Thankfully, there are several herbs and supplements that can help regulate cortisol levels in the body. Here are three of the best:


1. Ashwagandha 


Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety and has been shown to improve cortisol levels in the body. One study found that taking ashwagandha for 60 days led to a significant reduction in cortisol levels in participants. For more information on balancing your hormones with ashwagandha, check out my other article here.




2. Magnesium 


Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for many bodily functions, including the regulation of cortisol levels. A deficiency in magnesium can lead to elevated cortisol levels, so it is important to ensure that you are getting enough of this mineral. Good dietary sources of magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains. Magnesium supplements are also widely available. For information on which magnesium supplement is best for you, take a look at my article dedicated to "all things magnesium" here. My personal favorite is highlighted below!



3. Rhodiola 


Rhodiola is another adaptogenic herb that is commonly used to reduce stress and improve mood. It has been shown to decrease cortisol levels in the body, as well as improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. One study found that taking rhodiola for 12 weeks led to a significant reduction in cortisol levels in participants with chronic stress.





Elevated cortisol levels can have a significant negative impact on women’s health, from changes in mood to increased risk of hormonal disorders. However, by understanding the signs and symptoms of high cortisol and taking steps to regulate levels with the help of the best herbs and supplements, women can take control of their health and wellness. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best plan of action for you.


Think you might have elevated cortisol levels? Check out this video from Dr. Dray, a dermatologist, on the various ways you can tell if you have a cortisol imbalance by looking at your skin.








References


Lee, D. M., Tajar, A., Pye, S. R., Boonen, S., Vanderschueren, D., & O'Neill, T. W. (2015). Association of hypogonadism with vitamin D status: the European Male Ageing Study. European Journal of Endocrinology, 172(1), 79-87.


Sirmans, S. M., & Pate, K. A. (2013). Epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. Clinical epidemiology, 6, 1-13.


Chaudhari, A., Ravi, R., Baligar, P., & Patil, B. (2019). Efficacy and safety of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) root extract in improving memory and cognitive functions. Journal of dietary supplements, 16(5), 524-552.


Boyle, N. B., Lawton, C., & Dye, L. (2017). The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress—a systematic review. Nutrients, 9(5), 429.


Olsson, E. M., von Schéele, B., & Panossian, A. G. (2009). A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the standardised extract shr-5 of the roots of Rhodiola rosea in the treatment of subjects with stress-related fatigue. Planta medica, 75(2), 105-112.

 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

The Healing Power of Mushrooms: A Woman's Guide to Holistic Wellness

Click Here to Listen In the realm of traditional medicine, mushrooms have long been revered for their myriad health benefits. From immune-boosting properties to hormone-balancing effects, mushrooms offer a natural solution to support women's wellness. Recent research has shed light on the specific medicinal benefits of various mushroom types, making them valuable additions to a woman's health routine. In this article we will delve into five species of mushrooms and discuss how women of all ages can benefit from these, their potential side effects, and the best ways to incorporate mushrooms into your holistic health routine.  Reishi Mushrooms: The Immune Booster Reishi mushrooms, revered in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, offer a plethora of health benefits for women. One of the key active compounds found in Reishi mushrooms is polysaccharides, which possess potent immune-boosting properties. These polysaccharides help regulate the immune system, making Reishi partic...

Selenium: What All Women Should Know for Thyroid Health and Cancer Prevention

Click Here to Listen Selenium, a trace mineral found in soil and certain foods, plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal thyroid function and supporting overall health. In addition to its thyroid benefits, selenium has been linked to a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers in women. This article explores the importance of selenium in thyroid health and its potential role in preventing breast and ovarian cancers. Thyroid Function and Selenium Nestled in the neck lies the thyroid gland, a powerhouse organ responsible for regulating metabolism, growth, and development. At the heart of its intricate processes lies selenium, an indispensable component crucial for maintaining thyroid health. Let’s delve into the symbiotic relationship between selenium and the thyroid gland, shedding light on its pivotal role in hormone metabolism and the consequences of selenium deficiency. The thyroid gland orchestrates a symphony of metabolic activities by producing hormones essential for cellular ...

Revitalize Her: Discovering the Exceptional Health Benefits of Moringa for Women

Moringa oleifera, commonly known as "The Miracle Tree," has been a source of health and vitality for centuries in various parts of the world. Particularly for women, Moringa offers a multitude of benefits that cater to their unique health needs. Below, we explore the top eight health benefits of Moringa for women, shedding light on why this superfood is becoming an essential addition to their diet. 1. Rich in Essential Nutrients Moringa is a Nutritional Powerhouse : Every part of the Moringa tree is beneficial, but the leaves are especially rich in vitamins and minerals. For instance, Moringa leaves contain: - Vitamin A , which is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. - Vitamin C , which helps in fighting off infections and aids in collagen production for healthy skin. - Calcium , which is essential for strong bones and teeth, a concern for women who are at a higher risk of osteoporosis. - Iron, which is much needed for women who are more prone to...