Order Blood Cortisol Test
Order Urine Cortisol Test
The GSL Cortisol Urine Home Test Kit measures 7 biomarkers: Cortisol (Glucocorticoid), Aldosterone (Mineralocorticoid), 11-Deoxy-cortisol, 11-Deoxy-corticosterone, Cortisone, Corticosterone and Cortisol sulfate. Samples are analyzed by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography attached with Mass Spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS). For your privacy, results are mailed directly to your email account.
- Measures all major metabolites in cortisol metabolic pathway
- Advanced Accurate UPLC-MS Technology.
- Very Affordable.
- Easy to Use.
- Free Shipping.
- FREE Returns, Keep the Kit and Report.
Why You Need To Measure Cortisol Levels
Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. It plays a crucial role in many physiological processes, primarily related to the body’s response to stress. Cortisol is essential for a wide range of bodily functions, particularly in responding to stress and maintaining metabolic processes. While it is vital for health, prolonged elevated cortisol levels—often due to chronic stress—can have negative effects, including immune suppression, increased risk of chronic diseases (like cardiovascular disease), and cognitive dysfunction. Managing stress and ensuring balanced cortisol levels are key for maintaining overall health.
1. Regulation of Metabolism
- Blood Sugar (Glucose) Regulation: Cortisol helps regulate blood sugar by promoting gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) in the liver. This ensures that the body has enough energy, especially during times of stress or fasting.
- Fat and Protein Metabolism: It aids in the breakdown of fats and proteins to produce energy. This is particularly important during periods of physical stress or starvation, when energy needs increase.
2. Stress Response
- Cortisol is often called the “stress hormone” because its levels rise during stressful situations. It helps the body respond to stress by increasing alertness and preparing for a “fight or flight” response.
- Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: By promoting vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), cortisol helps increase blood pressure, ensuring that vital organs receive the oxygen and nutrients they need in times of stress.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: While acute stress triggers cortisol release to help the body cope, cortisol also has anti-inflammatory effects that reduce the immune system’s response to stressors.
3. Immune System Regulation
- Cortisol has an immunosuppressive effect, which helps to prevent the immune system from overreacting to stressors. It can suppress inflammation and regulate the immune response, balancing the body’s ability to fight infections with the need to prevent excessive immune reactions (like autoimmune responses).
4. Electrolyte Balance
- Cortisol helps regulate sodium and potassium levels, which are important for maintaining proper fluid balance and blood pressure.
5. Cognitive Function
- Cortisol plays a role in memory, mood regulation, and cognitive function. In the short term, it can enhance memory and alertness during stress, but chronic elevated levels may have negative effects on brain function, particularly affecting the hippocampus, which is involved in learning and memory.
6. Sleep-Wake Cycle
- Cortisol follows a natural daily rhythm, with its levels being highest in the morning (to help wake up and prepare the body for the day) and lowest at night (to help promote sleep). This pattern is crucial for the regulation of the circadian rhythm.
7. Blood Pressure Regulation
- Cortisol helps maintain blood pressure by increasing the responsiveness of blood vessels to vasoconstrictor signals, thus ensuring adequate circulation and oxygenation of tissues.