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Cortisol Effects

Meaning

Cortisol effects refer to the wide-ranging physiological and biochemical actions mediated by the glucocorticoid hormone cortisol throughout the body. As the primary hormone of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, cortisol influences nearly every organ system, modulating metabolism, immune response, and central nervous system activity. Its effects are essential for maintaining energy homeostasis during periods of physical or psychological stress, acting as a survival mechanism. However, chronic dysregulation of these effects can lead to detrimental health consequences, including insulin resistance and immune suppression.