What to watch with Cortisol and gut health?

Cortisol and gut health are linked via the gut-brain axis. Elevated cortisol can increase intestinal permeability ('leaky gut') and alter microbiome composition, while gut microbes can influence cortisol production. However, evidence is mostly from animal studies and small human trials; large-scale clinical data are lacking. Consumer tests for cortisol (saliva, hair) and gut microbiome (stool) are not diagnostic and should be interpreted cautiously. MyBody-X tests may offer insights but do not replace medical evaluation. For stress or digestive issues, consult a healthcare provider. Evidence: mechanistic.