Friend Or Foe? Here's How To Keep Your Cortisol Levels In Check

With a growing emphasis on stress management, experts break down the role cortisol plays on our overall wellbeing

- Kriti Shukla

Have you noticed how your body reacts under pressure to tackle whatever comes your way? That instinct is the stress hormone cortisol at work — and it can be your greatest ally or an enemy. Recently, actor-comedian Amy Schumer opened up about being diagnosed with Cushing syndrome, which is caused by excessive cortisol. "My body changed in ways I couldn't explain," she told podcast host Alex Cooper. Adding that she noticed rapid weight gain, a puffier-than-usual face, as well as moodiness and irritability.

But why does cortisol matter? And how can you make it work for instead of against you?

What is Cortisol?