Cortisol is often called the "stress hormone" - and for good reason. Secreted by the adrenal glands, cortisol is the central player in our body's physiological response to perceived threats and stressors. It increases blood sugar, suppresses immune function, and acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent in the body. This makes it crucial for our survival and recovery from acute stress.
However, when cortisol rhythms are disrupted due to chronic unmanaged stress, this can have deleterious effects on long-term health. Sustained high cortisol levels lead to inflammation, low-grade and systemic, that damages tissues over time.
Studies show almost 25% of people have a variation in the BDNF gene that is linked to impaired cortisol responses to stress. Another 10-15% have variants in genes critical for cortisol signaling. Together, it's estimated up to 30-40% of individuals may have some genetic predisposition to chronically elevated inflammation due to cortisol dysregulation.
Cortisol normally works through the glucocorticoid receptor pathway to suppress excess immune activation and proinflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-1B, and TNF-alpha. However, gene variations, chronic stress, and cortisol imbalance can reduce sensitivity to these anti-inflammatory effects.
Over time, this allows inflammation mediated by NF-kB and downstream cytokines to go unchecked. These inflammatory molecules damage all tissues, from the brain to the gut when elevated long-term.
Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction also play a role. Eventually, this cascades into systemic low-grade inflammation that underlies chronic health conditions like autoimmunity, heart disease, depression, chronic fatigue and pain, and even cancers.
The good news is we can counteract genetic susceptibilities by optimizing lifestyle factors. Stress management, regular exercise, sufficient sleep, an anti-inflammatory diet, targeted supplements like curcumin and omega-3s, and mind-body practices help stabilize cortisol rhythms and control inflammation. (adapted from Livewello.com) The ultimate practice is regular imaet scans and respective treatments with the Biofield Panel and
Allergens Panel as well as supportive panels. Nutrigenomics and gene-diet interactions may also help overcome inborn genetic tendencies.
With a holistic approach, we can leverage the latest research to manage chronic stress, stabilize cortisol, and mitigate inflammation - despite genetic predispositions. Upregulating gene hypofunction through harmonizing imaet treatments can provide a path to better health.
Here are my personal variants related to cortisol reported by Livewello: B
Based on the genotypes you provided, you carry one risk allele for the BDNF gene (rs6265 CT) and one risk allele for the IL6 gene (rs1800795 CG). This places you in the "High Risk" category according to the provided risk stratification. This genotype combination is linked to significant dysregulation of the HPA axis and cortisol response, resulting in sustained inflammation. You have a highly increased genetic risk that may require proactive management. Please consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.ased Thaton the genotypes you provided, you carry one risk allele for the Please note: the BDNF gene and frequency is part of the imaet software update 11.4 to be released March/April 2025.
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