Physical Effects

The main function of cortisol is to help return bodily functions to normal after a period of stress. It increases the secretion of gastric acid in the the stomach and limits the loss of sodium through the small intestine. Sodium retention can cause excess water to stay in the body, causing bloating.

Mental Effects

Cortisol works in conjunction with adrenaline to help create a short-term emotional response to stimuli, also known as euphoria. However, the presence of too much cortisol can gradually damage the hippocampus, which can impair learning ability. Cortisol can temporarily reduce pain response in nerve endings.

Reducing Cortisol Levels

Magnesium supplements can reduce the level of cortisol in the body by limiting serum production during aerobic exercise. Music therapy, laughing, massage therapy and other stress-relieving activities can reduce cortisol production.

Increase In Cortisol Levels

Caffeine is known to causes stress on the body and therefore increase cortisol production. Sleep deprivation also causes cortisol to be produced because increased stress is placed on the body when it is not well-rested.

Diseases Associated With Cortisol

Hypercortisolism is the medical term for too much cortisol being present in the body for a prolonged period. Adrenal insufficiency refers to a lack of cortisol being produced by the body.

Source:

Cortisol

Stress Cortisol Connection

The Human Brain - Stress

Resource:

Cortisol