wie kann man den cortisolspiegel messen — can a DNA test help?

Cortisol is measured via blood, saliva, or urine – not via a DNA test. While DNA tests can identify genetic variants in genes like NR3C1 (glucocorticoid receptor) or FKBP5 (stress regulation) that are associated with cortisol response, they do not measure current cortisol levels. The evidence for such associations is mostly mechanistic or based on small GWAS; effect sizes are small and not clinically actionable. Therefore, a DNA test cannot tell you whether your cortisol is high or low. For reliable measurement, established methods such as salivary cortisol day profiles (e.g., for suspected Cushing's or adrenal insufficiency) or the dexamethasone suppression test are needed. Caution: home cortisol tests (saliva or urine) provide only indications, not a clinical diagnosis. Values fluctuate greatly (circadian rhythm, stress, diet). If you have symptoms like chronic fatigue or weight gain, consult a doctor.