Cortisol (the main stress hormone) is the major age-accelerating hormone within the brain. It also interferes with learning and memory and is, in general, bad news for your health and your well-being. Vincent Giampapa, M.D.
Cortisol is absolutely necessary for life and health, but it needs to be kept in balance. Cortisol is produced in the adrenal glands in response to the overall level of stress perceived by centers in the lower part of your brain, called the PVN or paraventral nucleus. This area summs up input from the three areas of the Triangle of Health : The physical body, Body biochemistry, and Mental and Emotional stresses.
Basically, things that are good for you tend to raise DHEA levels and decrease high cortisol levels:
- Sleep
- Laughter
- Resolving emotional issues
- Being happy
- Moderate exercise
- Yoga
- Massage
- Chiropractic
- Acupuncture
- Meditation
Get the idea? So taking care of stress is one significant way to take care of your brain.
