Quick Facts

Excessive cortisol can create a broad range of undesirable side effects, including but not limited to:

Increased abdominal fat, which is associated with a greater amount of health problems than fat deposited in other areas of the body.
Excess stomach fat is associated with heart attacks, strokes, the development of metabolic syndrome, higher levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and lower levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL)
Elevated blood glucose which leads to insulin resistance
High blood pressure
The “adrenaline rush” is kept from going out of control
Energy is released for immediate activity
Awareness is enhanced to remember the solution to the problem
Immune response is dampened so you don’t feel sick
Hormones in the brain that released cortisol are turned down to terminate the stress response

Source: Griffin J., Ojeda S. Textbook of endocrine physiology, 3rd ed. New York: Oxford University Press, 1996

Don’t worry about things you can’t control, such as the weather.
Solve the little problems. This can help you gain a feeling of control.
Prepare to the best of your ability for events you know may be stressful, such as a job interview.
Try to look at change as a positive challenge, not as a threat. Work to resolve conflicts with other people.
Talk with a trusted friend, family member or counselor.
Set realistic goals at home and at work.
Avoid over-scheduling.
Exercise on a regular basis.
Eat regular, well-balanced meals and get enough sleep.
Meditate.
Participate in something you don’t find stressful, such as sports, social events or hobbies.

Source: American Academy of Family Physicians