The effects of age on cortisol levels: understanding hormonal changes

1 of 6

Cortisol, often dubbed the “stress hormone,” has been at the forefront of discussions in recent years, particularly with terms like “cortisol belly” and “cortisol detox” trending on social media. Many are paying closer attention to their cortisol levels, but did you know that these levels fluctuate as we age? Like other hormones such as oestrogen and testosterone, cortisol levels can change throughout different life stages. According to Hannah Alderson, a registered nutritionist and hormone specialist, these changes are often influenced by hormonal shifts and perceived stress levels over time.

++ Farage’s comments on mental health diagnosis spark controversy

Research shows that cortisol levels generally rise slightly with age. However, studies are still limited on this topic, with some longitudinal studies providing more insight. For example, a study published in Psychoneuroendocrinology revealed that over six years, cortisol levels in adults showed notable changes. Their waking cortisol levels were higher after six years, and the morning surge of cortisol was less pronounced. Moreover, the drop-off was slower, meaning cortisol remained elevated throughout the day for a longer period. Alderson highlights that these fluctuations could be influenced by trauma or post-traumatic stress (PTS) at various points in one’s life, which can impact the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, the system that regulates stress responses.

During puberty, teenagers experience significant hormonal changes, including fluctuations in cortisol levels. A study by Stanford University revealed that girls in different stages of puberty had varying cortisol responses to stress, with those later in puberty having a more heightened cortisol reaction. Alderson explains that puberty marks a time when stress exposure increases, and the hormonal systems responsible for stress processing undergo significant maturation. Teenagers, therefore, tend to become more sensitive to stress and experience stronger emotional reactions. Factors like sleep deprivation, social media pressures, and an unstable diet can amplify these changes.

++ Relaxation techniques show promise for managing high blood pressure, study finds

Cortisol levels also undergo dramatic changes during pregnancy and the postpartum period. During pregnancy, research indicates that cortisol can double, which is essential for the development of the fetus. Alderson notes that the placenta produces corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates cortisol production, peaking in the third trimester. However, after childbirth, cortisol levels drop quickly, which, combined with sleep deprivation and the emotional challenges of motherhood, can lead to a stressed and fragile HPA axis. As women approach perimenopause and menopause, cortisol regulation becomes even more complex, with fluctuating levels of oestrogen and progesterone impacting stress resilience. Cortisol can feel more intense, especially when progesterone levels, which have a calming effect, decline. Proper stress management, especially during these stages, becomes crucial.