High cortisol levels linked with cardiovascular disease

Posted on 27. Oct, 2010 by Julia Barnard in stress, Wellbeing Research

A six-year study carried out by researchers from the University Medical Centre in the Netherlands has been looking at the link between cortisol levels and deaths from cardiovascular disease. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the body when we are stressed and small amounts allow recovery. In high amounts it is a problem and has been associated with risk factors that can later result in cardiovascular disease. This latest study focused on the direct link between high cortisol levels and cardiovascular death. 860 people over 65 years of age took part in the study. Their urinary cortisol levels were measured. After six years, 183 people had died. Those people who had the highest cortisol levels, had a five times increased risk of dying from cardiovascular disease.

It is important to manage stress on a regular basis to help lower cortisol levels. I have a number of tips and ideas in my relaxation article.

Tags: health, relaxation, stress