Dubai Wellness Coach Warns About High Cortisol and Shares Health Improvement Tips

Cortisol, often termed the stress hormone, significantly influences the body's response to stress, metabolism, inflammation, and immune support. Persistently high levels of this hormone can lead to various health issues. Wellness coach Rachel Sanders, hailing from Dubai, experienced this first-hand. For years, she battled high cortisol without recognizing the symptoms. Eventually, she discovered the link between her daily struggles and this hormonal imbalance.

After shedding 24 kilograms and enhancing her sleep and energy, Rachel took to social media to share her insights. Initially, she believed her fatigue and mood swings were merely part of being a mother or a reflection of poor time management. Only later did she realize her elevated cortisol levels were contributing to numerous health challenges. Her transformation underscores the impact of chronic stress and the potential of simple lifestyle changes to restore balance.

She identified six critical warning signs that indicated her condition. The first was a lack of morning appetite. Typically, cortisol peaks in the morning, preparing the body for the day ahead. In her case, stress clouded these signals. She recommends morning sunlight exposure, consistent meal schedules, and starting the day with a protein-rich meal.

The second sign was persistent belly fat. Rachel noted that high cortisol hampers weight loss, particularly around the abdomen. Despite her healthy eating habits, this area remained unchanged. To combat this, she embraced strength training three times a week, daily walks, increased protein intake, and incorporated natural adaptogens for hormonal balance.

A third sign was facial puffiness and generalized inflammation. She explained that elevated cortisol hampers the lymphatic system, leading to water retention and bloating. To counteract this, she prioritized quality sleep and reduced alcohol and processed food, instead opting for anti-inflammatory meals.

Another indicator was waking up nightly at 3 a.m. She noted that drops in blood sugar or spikes in stress could interrupt deep sleep. To remedy this, she introduced nighttime snacks comprising both protein and carbohydrates to stabilize her blood sugar and minimize disruptions. Additionally, she integrated stress-relief techniques into her daily routine.

Constant food cravings also signaled an issue. As cortisol levels rise, the body's demand for quick energy and essential nutrients increases, leading to cravings for sugary or salty foods. To address this, she began including magnesium, potassium, and electrolyte-rich foods in her diet, which support adrenal functions and aid in stress management.

The final sign was heightened emotional sensitivity. Rachel found herself becoming easily overwhelmed, which stemmed from the fight-or-flight state triggered by persistent high cortisol. To soothe her mind, she practiced simple techniques such as outdoor walks, deep-breathing exercises, and daily relaxation routines, helping her nervous system regain balance.

Rachel's journey serves as a reminder that the body communicates its struggles, often overlooked in our busy lives. She discovered that high cortisol affects more than just stress—it influences sleep, weight, appetite, mood, and overall well-being. Her positive changes resulted from mindful modifications: prioritizing nutrition, maintaining a consistent training regimen, ensuring proper sleep, and dedicating time for relaxation.

Her message emphasizes the importance of tuning into one’s body and taking proactive steps rather than waiting for symptoms to escalate. While her recommendations stem from personal experience, she encourages individuals to consult healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Effective habits can lead to significant improvements, but expert guidance should never be overlooked.

Her story is a testament to the healing process that begins when we become attuned to our body's signals and practice self-care.