Everywhere you look, there seems to be advice on how to “naturally lower cortisol,” often accompanied by suggesting you take several supplements and follow a very specific (usually rather restrictive) diet. However, what's often not being said is that it is perfectly normal for your cortisol levels to fluctuate throughout the day and cortisol will increase due to stress, poor sleep or a variety of other factors.
Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, and it's primarily released in response to stress. Its role? To help regulate numerous functions across your body, including your metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure. Its short-term increase often serves a protective purpose. Issues only arise when these short-term surges become chronic, often due to ongoing stress or lifestyle imbalances.
Managing cortisol effectively during perimenopause isn’t about fighting against your body’s normal functions—it’s about supporting it with strategies that help regulate and restore balance.
Why Does Cortisol Matter During Perimenopause?
During perimenopause, fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels can disrupt cortisol regulation, often heightening your sensitivity to stress. This can lead to a vicious cycle where chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, impacting your sleep, energy, and even weight.
Signs of Elevated Cortisol in Perimenopause
If your cortisol levels are consistently elevated during perimenopause, you might notice symptoms such as:
Fatigue and low energy despite sufficient sleep
Weight gain, especially around your midsection
Mood swings or feelings of increased anxiety
Disrupted sleep patterns, such as waking up in the early hours and being unable to fall back asleep
Sugar or carb cravings, often tied to energy dips
Understanding this connection can empower you to take proactive steps in managing your hormone health and help you take the necessary steps to reduce your stressors.
The Link Between Cortisol and Weight Gain
Weight gain during perimenopause is a common concern. Almost every client that comes to me is feeling frustrated because they are seemingly doing all "the right" things and yet they are still gaining weight.
Elevated cortisol often plays a role by increasing your body's tendency to store fat, particularly around the abdomen. When stress levels rise, cortisol prompts your body to hold on to calories for energy. Additionally, high cortisol levels can worsen insulin resistance, making it harder for your cells to use glucose efficiently. This can leave you feeling hungrier for high-carb or sugary foods, perpetuating cycles of overeating.
But don’t worry—there are ways to break this cycle. By managing your cortisol levels and nourishing your body with the right nutrition, it’s entirely possible to find your “happy weight” again.
With that let's get into some strategies you can implement to manage your stress during perimenopause which will in turn help naturally lower your cortisol.
Practical Steps to Manage Stress In Perimenopause:
1. Prioritize Restorative Sleep
Sleep is essential for regulating cortisol and other key hormones. Aim for at least 7–9 hours of restorative sleep each night to help your body recover and manage stress more effectively.
Tips for better sleep:
Create a bedtime routine that includes calming activities like stretching, reading, or meditating.
Keep your bedroom dark and cool for optimal sleep conditions.
Avoid screens at least an hour before bed, as blue light can hinder melatonin production.
2. Balance Your Nutrient Intake
Your diet can significantly impact cortisol levels. Focus on foods that minimize inflammation and promote steady blood sugar levels.
Cortisol-balancing foods include:
Protein-rich foods like lean meats, eggs, chia seeds, and Greek yogurt to stabilize your energy.
Healthy fats such as avocados, olive oil, and nuts that support brain and hormone health.
Low-glycemic carbs like sweet potatoes, quinoa, and leafy greens that keep blood sugar levels steady.
Avoid:
Excess caffeine can spike cortisol levels. Your morning coffee is totally fine and you do not have to give up coffee altogether. (unless that's what you want to do)
Processed sugars and refined carbohydrates, which may lead to energy crashes.
3. Manage Stress with Gentle Movement
High-intensity workouts, while beneficial for some, can exacerbate stress if your cortisol levels are already elevated. Alternatively, opt for low-impact exercises that release endorphins without stressing your adrenal system.
Recommended activities for perimenopause:
Yoga or Pilates to strengthen and stretch your body while reducing stress.
Walking outdoors for a mood-boosting and grounding experience.
Resistance training to support muscle tone and bone health.
4. Adopt Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness-based practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling can significantly reduce stress and lower cortisol levels. We all know that mid-life can be a time when lots of stressors can arise. From career demands to raising a family and for some the added stressor of having to care for aging parents. This can leave you feeling stressed out, and this coupled with meno-rage and hot flashes can cause cortisol levels to rise.
Adding in just 5–10 minutes a day of focused breathing can make a noticeable difference in how you feel.
Try this simple breathing exercise:
Sit in a comfortable position and close your eyes.
Breathe in deeply through your nose for a count of 4.
Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of 6.
Repeat this cycle for 5–7 minutes to promote relaxation.
5. Support Your Adrenal Health with Adaptogens
Certain herbs, known as adaptogens, can help your body adapt to stress while supporting cortisol balance. Popular adaptogens include ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil. These herbs can be consumed as teas, supplements, or powders added to smoothies. You can learn more about adaptogens for hormone health here.
6. Stay Connected With Your Community
Isolation can amplify stress, whereas maintaining connections with loved ones can promote the release of oxytocin—the “love hormone”—which naturally counteracts cortisol.
Whether it’s catching up with friends, joining a support group, or seeking a therapist, building a sense of community can provide emotional resilience during this time.
Navigating the transition of perimenopause may feel overwhelming at times, but with a proactive approach, you can regain control, energy, and confidence. By prioritizing sleep, nutrition, movement, and mindfulness, you’re actively working to balance cortisol and nurture your overall well-being.
Keep in mind that to lower your cortisol naturally you essentially need to incorporate daily practices that help you reduce and navigate stress.
If you’re ready to fuel your body, find your happy weight, and return to feeling like the best version of yourself, consider booking a complimentary discovery call so see if the Nourish to Thrive program might be right for you.
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