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Cortisol Pathway Management

Meaning

Cortisol Pathway Management is the clinical practice of monitoring and modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the resulting secretion and action of the stress hormone cortisol. The objective is to maintain a healthy, dynamic diurnal cortisol rhythm and ensure appropriate responsiveness to acute stressors while preventing chronic hyper- or hypo-cortisol states. Effective management is crucial for protecting metabolic health, immune function, and mental well-being from the detrimental effects of prolonged stress. This intervention is a cornerstone of balancing the body’s allostatic load.