Let’s talk Stress Hormone!
Cortisol, commonly known as the “stress hormone,” plays a critical role in regulating various physiological processes, including metabolism, immune response, and the body’s stress response. Managing acute stress is optimal, we need to consider chronic elevation of cortisol and it’s negative effects, particularly in women. One of the most concerning impacts of sustained high cortisol levels is its potential to accelerate the aging process, both externally (skin aging) and internally (organ and cellular aging). We do not need to speed up the aging roller coaster!
Cortisol and Skin Aging
Cortisol affects your skin, which is one of the most visible signs of aging. Research has shown that chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can lead to increased collagen breakdown (no thank you), a crucial protein that maintains your skin’s elasticity and firmness. A study published in the *Journal of Investigative Dermatology* highlights how cortisol triggers the degradation/break down of collagen fibers in the skin, contributing to the formation of wrinkles and loss of elasticity as age. When collagen production slows, the skin becomes thinner, drier, and more prone to damage, leading to premature aging. Throw in a splash of perimenopause and Boom Shakalaka you’ve got yourself a cocktail of dry, dull, aged looking skin.
Moreover, elevated cortisol levels are associated with a decrease in the production of hyaluronic acid, a molecule essential for maintaining skin hydration. Dry, dehydrated skin exacerbates the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (again, no thank you). In addition, cortisol impairs the skin’s ability to repair itself from environmental stressors such as UV radiation, further accelerating the aging process (one word- use sun screen – ok so that was three). Chronic stress, therefore, not only harms the skin but also impairs its natural ability to recover from everyday wear and tear.
Cortisol and Cellular Aging
Beyond the external signs of aging, cortisol also influences the internal aging process by accelerating cellular damage. One significant mechanism through which cortisol affects aging at the cellular level is by shortening telomeres (a DNA sequence that shortens with aging until eventually it’s so short the cell dies. Longevity = long telomeres) , the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. Telomeres naturally shorten as cells divide, but chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can accelerate this process.
A pivotal study published in *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences* found that women with high perceived stress had significantly shorter telomeres compared to women with lower stress levels. This suggests that chronic stress not only hastens cellular aging but also predisposes individuals to age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline.
Another aspect of cortisol-related cellular aging is its impact on mitochondrial function. Mitochondria, known as the powerhouses of the cell, are responsible for energy production and are crucial for overall cellular health. This is why I take NAD and Shane ice baths. Chronic exposure to high cortisol levels can impair mitochondrial function, leading to reduced energy production, oxidative stress, and eventually, cell damage or death. This process contributes to the aging of tissues and organs, further advancing age-related conditions.
Hormonal Imbalances and Aging
In women, cortisol interacts with other hormones, notably estrogen and progesterone, which are critical for maintaining reproductive health and overall vitality. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the balance of these hormones, leading to symptoms associated with peri and menopause and aging, such as weight gain, decreased bone density, and mood fluctuations. According to a study published in *Psychoneuroendocrinology*, women experiencing chronic stress may have lower levels of estrogen, which plays a protective role against aging. The hormonal imbalances caused by elevated cortisol can therefore accelerate the onset of menopause-like symptoms, even in younger women, leading to a faster aging process. There is a truck tone of new and old information around Peri/Menopause, it’s worth talking to a health professional who is interested in this area if you are feeling any symptoms.
In summary start practicing selfcare!
The relationship between cortisol and aging is complex, particularly in women. Elevated cortisol levels, often driven by chronic stress, not only accelerate skin aging but also hasten cellular aging and disrupt hormonal balance. Studies have shown that cortisol contributes to collagen degradation, telomere shortening, and mitochondrial dysfunction, all of which play a role in advancing the aging process. While managing stress is crucial for maintaining youthful vitality, lifestyle interventions such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices can help reduce cortisol levels and mitigate its effects on aging. This is often easier said than done so baby selfcare steps are great. Take just 1% of your day for you, the little things add up and before you know it 100% is for you!
