A recent British study has shown that waking up from sleep does not necessarily lead to a rapid increase in cortisol levels, known as the "stress hormone," as changes in its levels in the morning may reflect the body's natural biological rhythm rather than waking up itself.
Researchers from the University of Bristol led this study, which aimed to distinguish between natural changes in cortisol levels during morning hours and changes that may occur after waking up, using an automated system to measure the hormone in participants' homes.
The results showed no evidence of an accelerated rate of cortisol increase during the first hour after waking up compared to the preceding hour, indicating that its morning rise may be linked to the hormone's natural circadian rhythm, which begins to increase during the early morning hours.
The researchers pointed out the need for caution when interpreting cortisol measurements taken only during the first hour after waking up, as these measurements alone are insufficient to determine whether a person suffers from chronic stress or a hormone level disorder.
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, helping to regulate metabolic processes, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure, while also playing a role in regulating the immune response and helping the body cope with psychological and physical stress.
The study highlights the importance of distinguishing between natural changes in cortisol levels throughout the day and changes that may be associated with other factors, thereby helping to interpret hormonal measurements more accurately.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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