It is becoming increasingly clear that stress and cholesterol levels are intrinsically linked. Experiencing high or prolonged stress levels can raise cholesterol in multiple ways, notably through a βfight or flightβ reaction which causes the body to produce more cortisol. This hormone plays an essential role in your body by managing how carbohydrates, fats and proteins are processed; reducing inflammation; regulating blood pressure; influencing the immune system; and distributing glucose throughout the body.
A higher level of cortisol triggers a cascade of events that ultimately increases blood sugar, leading to more triglycerides (fats) and subsequently higher cholesterol. Cortisol also contributes to unhealthy behaviors such as overeating comfort foods or remaining indoors for extended periodsβboth of which can worsen our cholesterol readings. Studies have even shown that long-term exposure to cortisol can reduce HDL (the good cholesterol) while increasing LDL (the bad cholesterol). |
