Cortisol

Articles tagged with "Cortisol".

Age-Related Changes in Slow Wave Sleep and REM Sleep: Growth Hormone and Cortisol Connection

Tags: Aging, Slow Wave Sleep, REM Sleep, Growth Hormone, Cortisol

October 22, 2025

How Does Aging Change Your Sleep Architecture and Hormone Production?

Aging dramatically alters sleep architecture, with this landmark study showing that slow wave sleep (deep sleep) decreases by approximately 75% between ages 20 and 60, while growth hormone secretion during sleep declines by 80% over the same period. Simultaneously, cortisol levels increase with age, creating a hormonal environment that further impairs sleep quality and recovery. REM sleep also decreases with aging, though less dramatically than slow wave sleep. These age-related changes explain why older adults experience lighter, more fragmented sleep and reduced physical recovery, highlighting the interconnected relationship between sleep architecture and hormonal health throughout the lifespan.

Morning Light Exposure Affects Cortisol Levels and Stress Response

Tags: Morning Light, Cortisol, Stress Response, Light Therapy

October 22, 2025

How Does Morning Light Exposure Affect Your Stress Hormone Levels?

Morning light exposure significantly influences cortisol patterns and stress hormone regulation, with research showing that bright light enhances the natural morning cortisol rise and helps optimize daily stress hormone rhythms. Studies demonstrate that people exposed to bright morning light show more robust cortisol awakening responses and better-regulated daily cortisol patterns compared to those with dim light exposure. This suggests that morning light is not just important for circadian timing but also plays a crucial role in optimizing stress hormone function and resilience.

Sleep Loss Elevates Cortisol Levels the Following Evening

Tags: Sleep Loss, Cortisol, Stress Hormones, Circadian Rhythm

October 22, 2025

How Does Sleep Loss Affect Your Stress Hormone Levels?

Sleep loss significantly elevates cortisol levels the following evening, disrupting the natural daily rhythm of this crucial stress hormone. Research shows that after sleep deprivation, cortisol levels remain elevated during evening hours when they should naturally be declining in preparation for sleep. This creates a vicious cycle where sleep loss increases stress hormones, which can then interfere with subsequent sleep quality and timing, potentially perpetuating sleep problems and chronic stress responses.