was ist cortisol — what symptoms are typical?

Cortisol is a vital hormone produced by the adrenal glands, acting as the body's primary stress hormone. It regulates metabolism, blood sugar, inflammation, and the sleep-wake cycle. Typical symptoms of elevated cortisol (hypercortisolism) include rapid weight gain, especially in the face (moon face) and abdomen, thinning skin that bruises easily, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, insomnia, mood swings, and reduced libido. Chronically high cortisol can lead to Cushing's syndrome, which requires medical evaluation. Conversely, low cortisol (adrenal insufficiency) presents with fatigue, weakness, low blood pressure, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Diagnosis involves saliva, blood, or 24-hour urine tests. Note: Single measurements are often unreliable due to cortisol's diurnal rhythm (peak in morning, trough at night). MyBody-X does not test cortisol; if you suspect an imbalance, consult a healthcare provider.