Cortisol Dominance Syndrome is a functional endocrine pattern characterized by an imbalance where the catabolic effects of elevated or inappropriately timed cortisol outweigh the protective and anabolic effects of other hormones, such as DHEA and sex steroids. This state does not necessarily imply Cushing’s disease but rather a functional, stress-induced dysregulation of the HPA axis. The resulting biochemical environment promotes protein breakdown, fat deposition, and immune suppression, significantly impacting overall health and body composition.
Origin
This term is a clinical construct used within functional endocrinology to describe the detrimental effects of chronic stress on the hormonal milieu, where the stress hormone cortisol assumes a disproportionately influential role. It stems from the observation of an altered cortisol-to-DHEA ratio, a key marker of chronic stress adaptation. The concept provides a tangible link between persistent psychological or physiological stress and systemic hormonal imbalance.
Mechanism
The primary mechanism involves chronic overproduction of cortisol due to persistent stress, leading to increased activity of the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1), which regenerates active cortisol within tissues. Furthermore, high cortisol levels compete with other steroid hormones for receptor binding and can suppress the production of DHEA and testosterone, creating a state of relative anabolic deficiency. This biochemical shift drives the characteristic symptoms, including visceral adiposity, muscle wasting, and compromised immune function.
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