How does one reduce cortisol levels?

I try to relax as much as I can. This, BTW, is a place that I come to relax. I really enjoy this discussion board and, frankly, wish that I could meet many of the people on here.

Other than encouraging a more relaxing life, how can I reduce cortisol and is there a test?

DHEA reduces cortisol damage.

Basically DHEA and cortisol balance each other out. But as we get older, cortisol remains high but DHEA drops 90%.

This is a reason that teen-agers thrive on stress but as we get older, stress can cause harm due to the low DHEA level.

How much should I take? I'm "stressed out" at present.

Start at 25 mg daily. Then if that does not, keep increasing up to 100 mg daily.

Dr Pickart - doesn't DHEA also increase acne?

quote:

Researchers have found a hormone that plays a key roll in adult acne development. Dihydropiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) is an androgen hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Elevated levels of this hormone have been found in women suffering from adult-onset acne

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Yes, in some cases. But DHEA drops by 90% from age 20 to age 65. So if your DHEA is very low, your body suffers.

This is why I recommend starting low on DHEA, see how your body responds, then use more if it seems to be helping.

If you're looking for a more subtle approach then anecdotal reports say that vitamin C can reduce cortisol levels.

Thank you for the reply. I really need to work on this area of my life.