Myths vs facts: Cortisol and Blutzucker

Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, directly influences blood glucose by stimulating gluconeogenesis and reducing insulin sensitivity. A common myth is that stress alone causes diabetes. In reality, chronic cortisol elevation contributes to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes risk, but the disease is multifactorial (genetics, diet, physical activity). Another myth: cortisol is always harmful. In the short term, it is essential for survival (e.g., acute stress response, morning awakening). Fact: A healthy circadian rhythm with adequate sleep and stress management can normalize cortisol levels. Blood glucose measurements alone cannot assess cortisol; specific saliva, blood, or urine tests are required. The evidence for the cortisol–blood glucose link is human-strong (well-established physiology and large cohort studies). Caveat: individual cortisol fluctuations are high, so single measurements are unreliable for diagnosis.