Exercise that can temporarily increase cortisol

Cortisol, often labeled the "stress hormone," is crucial for survival, enabling the body to respond to challenges, maintain blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar. "Cortisol is not the enemy," explains endocrinologist Dr. Jennifer Cheng. It naturally fluctuates, peaking in the morning. The real issue arises when cortisol levels remain chronically elevated.

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Cortisol is not the enemy

Endocrinologist Andres Splenser emphasizes a holistic approach to hormonal balance: prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise in that order. These pillars not only improve well-being but also ensure proper hormone function. Conversely, lack of sleep, chronic stress, poor diet, and insufficient physical activity disrupt the entire hormonal system.

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If you want hormonal health, focus on three things – sleep, nutrition, and physical activity, in that order.

Interestingly, even a healthy habit like High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) can temporarily raise cortisol. HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief rest periods. "HIIT causes a temporary increase in cortisol because the brain signals that the body is under significant physical load," says Dr. Cheng. This triggers the release of stress hormones.

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HIIT causes a temporary increase in cortisol because the brain signals that the body is under significant physical load.

However, this temporary surge is not cause for alarm. Dr. Victoria Fin notes that cortisol plays a vital role during intense workouts, increasing blood glucose for energy and aiding in blood pressure and heart rate regulation. "Simply put, cortisol helps the body withstand short, very intense physical loads," she states. Research confirms that post-HIIT cortisol levels typically rise and then fall below baseline, returning to normal within 24 hours, indicating it's a manageable physiological response.

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Simply put, cortisol helps the body withstand short, very intense physical loads.