Ray Peat: Cortisol in Aging and How to Lower It
Cortisol, a stress hormone, plays a significant role in the aging process and has various effects on the body. Understanding its role and how to regulate it is essential for better health and well-being, especially as we age.
Cortisol and Aging
Activation by Stress and its Effects: Cortisol is activated by stress and uses up glucose. It is directly responsible for several aging features, including atrophy of skin, muscles, bones, the immune system, and brain parts. These effects are compounded by the loss of melanin, fat deposition in certain areas, and slowed conduction.
Cortisol and Menopause: Around menopause, changes like the rise of free fatty acids and reduced glucose availability make the body rely more on cortisol production. This heightened cortisol further contributes to aging-related changes.
Cortisol and Depression: Chronic elevation of cortisol is seen in depression, and interestingly, cortisol supplements can relieve depressive symptoms. It is associated with the inhibition of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which is more directly linked to depression.
Cortisol’s Dual Role: The hormone has a catabolic action, similar to the process of winnowing wheat: it preserves active cells while eliminating idle ones. However, continuous exposure to cortisol can destroy resistance and promote cell damage.
Impact on DNA Repair: High cortisol levels, especially in women on estrogen therapy, can inhibit DNA repair in human peripheral lymphocytes, highlighting its damaging potential at cellular levels.
The Role of Estrogen and Progesterone
Estrogen and Cortisol Production: Estrogen increases cortisol production through various mechanisms, including acting on the pituitary gland and adrenal glands. It promotes excitotoxic processes that can lead to cell damage and inflammation.
Progesterone as a Balancing Hormone: Progesterone has anti-inflammatory and protective effects, countering the harmful effects of cortisol. It stimulates the production of more progesterone, which helps protect against cortisol’s catabolic effects.
Aging, Hormones, and Cortisol
Reduced Protective Hormones with Age: With aging, the concentration of protective hormones like pregnenolone, DHEA, and progesterone decreases significantly, making the brain and other organs more susceptible to cortisol’s destructive action.
Cholesterol Synthesis and Aging: In older individuals, the synthesis of cholesterol decreases, partly due to the increased effects of cortisol and decreased effects of thyroid hormones. This change affects skin and brain health.
Strategies to Lower Cortisol and Its Effects
Improving Energy Production: Providing alternative energy sources like ketones and reducing stress hormones can help mitigate the effects of cortisol. This approach can potentially prevent or reverse conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
Nutrition and Hypothyroidism: Good nutrition and managing hypothyroidism are crucial in reducing cortisol production. Poor nutrition and hypothyroidism can lead to increased cortisol production and its associated negative effects.
Role of Progesterone: Administering progesterone can help in managing symptoms related to high cortisol levels, like insomnia and osteoporosis, and also prolong fertility.
In conclusion, cortisol plays a critical role in aging, influencing various physiological processes. Its regulation, particularly through the balancing effects of hormones like progesterone and managing factors like nutrition and thyroid function, can mitigate its negative impacts on health. Understanding and addressing these aspects can lead to healthier aging and improved overall well-being.