Cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in the body’s response to stress. Through the story of Lucy, who is concerned about her cortisol levels due to symptoms like anxiety, weight gain, and sleep disturbances, the episode addresses common misconceptions about cortisol. This episode outlines symptoms of both high and low cortisol, emphasises the importance of medical evaluation for persistent symptoms, and offers practical stress management tips such as improving sleep, regular exercise, building supportive relationships, and practising deep breathing. The key message is that cortisol is not the enemy; understanding and managing stress is vital for overall health. ---- Disclaimer: The case studies shared in this podcast are fictional stories created to illustrate health scenarios and provide educational context. They are not actual patient records and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised medical guidance.