There’s a lot of buzz in the wellness world about cortisol, usually in reference to HIGH cortisol. But did you know that low cortisol can be just as big of a problem?
Cortisol is one of the most important hormones in your body – but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
When cortisol is too low, it can quietly impact your energy, mood, metabolism, and overall health. And the tricky part? Many of the symptoms overlap with high cortisol, which is why guessing is a mistake.
In this post, we’ll break down:
- What cortisol actually does
- Why low cortisol happens
- The most common symptoms
- How to test accurately
- Practical steps to restore balance
What Is Cortisol (and Why It Matters)
Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands in response to stress.
Your body doesn’t distinguish between:
- Emotional stress (work, relationships, trauma)
- Physical stress (poor sleep, illness, inflammation, poor diet)
Both trigger your HPA axis (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis) to release cortisol.
Cortisol’s Role in the Body
When functioning properly, cortisol:
- Provides quick energy
- Improves focus and alertness
- Regulates blood sugar
- Supports metabolism
- Helps you respond to stress
In short, it’s a survival hormone.
How Low Cortisol Develops (The Burnout Cycle)
Cortisol problems usually don’t start low – they start high.
Here’s what happens:
- Chronic stress → cortisol stays elevated
- Cells become less sensitive to cortisol
- Brain reduces cortisol production
- Levels flatten and drop
This is often referred to as:
- Burnout
- HPA axis dysfunction
- “Adrenal fatigue” (informal term)
👉 Important: This is NOT the same as Addison’s disease (a medical condition requiring different treatment).
Top 5 Symptoms of Low Cortisol
1. Fatigue and Brain Fog
- Constant exhaustion (mental + physical)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Low motivation
⚠️ Important: Fatigue can also come from high cortisol, thyroid issues, or nutrient deficiencies.
👉 This is why testing matters.
2. Weight Gain or Weight Loss Resistance
Low cortisol can impact metabolism in several ways:
- Poor fat mobilization
- Blood sugar crashes → cravings
- Low energy → reduced exercise capacity
- Difficulty building muscle
Result: stubborn weight that won’t budge
3. Low Mood, Motivation, or Depression
- Lack of drive
- Feeling “flat” emotionally
- Increased stress sensitivity
Low cortisol often overlaps with:
- Low estrogen (especially in perimenopause/menopause)
4. Low Blood Pressure or Dizziness
- Lightheadedness when standing
- Occasional dizziness
- Orthostatic hypotension
This is one of the most overlooked signs of burnout.
5. Low Libido
- Reduced sex drive
- Hormonal imbalance
Why this happens:
- Low cortisol → often low DHEA
- Low DHEA → lower testosterone
- Lower testosterone → reduced libido
Other Possible Symptoms
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Skin changes (hyperpigmentation)
- Sleep disturbances
Why You Should NEVER Guess Your Cortisol Levels
Here’s the biggest mistake people make:
👉 Taking supplements to LOWER cortisol… when it’s already LOW.
Symptoms of high and low cortisol overlap significantly.
The Problem with Blood Tests
- Cortisol fluctuates throughout the day
- Single blood draw = incomplete picture
The Best Way to Test Cortisol
The most accurate approach is a comprehensive at-home hormone test that measures:
- Cortisol patterns throughout the day
- Metabolized cortisol
- DHEA levels
My favorite test for this is the DUTCH test. You can read more about the DUTCH test here. If you are interested in ordering an at-home kit for yourself, I am a DUTCH test provider and would be happy to guide you through the process!
👉 [Order your DUTCH test kit here]
This gives you:
- Real data (not guesswork)
- Clear direction for treatment
- A full picture of your HPA axis function
How to Fix Low Cortisol Naturally
1. Support Hormone Production with Healthy Fats
Cortisol is made from cholesterol.
Avoid:
- Extremely low-fat diets
Focus on:
- Avocados
- Olive oil
- Eggs
- Salmon
- Nuts
2. Reduce Physical Stressors
Instead of trying to eliminate all stress (impossible), focus on:
- Improving sleep
- Reducing sugar and processed foods
- Supporting gut health
- Addressing nutrient deficiencies
3. Improve Metabolic Health
- Stabilize blood sugar
- Reduce insulin resistance
- Eat balanced meals (protein, fat, fiber)
4. Use Targeted Supplements (When Appropriate)
Certain supplements can support cortisol production and resilience:
Adaptogens
- Panax Ginseng
- Cordyceps
- Rhodiola
Benefits:
- Improve energy
- Enhance stress resilience
- Support cognitive function
Adrenal Glandulars
- Provide nutrients needed for cortisol production
- Support adrenal function directly
Licorice Root Extract
- Helps increase active cortisol levels
- Can improve energy
⚠️ Important:
- May raise blood pressure
- Not suitable for everyone
👉 [For 25% off of practitioner grade supplements, click here to join my Fullscript Dispensary]
The Real Solution: Address the Root Cause
Quick fixes won’t solve cortisol dysfunction.
True recovery requires:
- Identifying stressors
- Supporting your body systems
- Using data (testing) to guide decisions
A resilient stress response system is one of the most powerful drivers of:
- Energy
- Longevity
- Metabolic health
Final Thoughts
If you feel:
- Exhausted
- Unmotivated
- Stuck with your weight
- Overwhelmed by stress
Your cortisol rhythm may be off.
And the only way to know for sure…
👉 Test—don’t guess.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, testing protocol, or lifestyle change—especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication.