The Foolproof Way to Stop High Cortisol (in literally minutes)

Summary: This video dives into cortisol's role in stress, the dangers of chronic elevation, and science-backed strategies to lower it quickly. Key insights include the importance of the parasympathetic nervous system, mitochondrial support, and targeted supplements like TroCalm and Methylene Blue. The core message: balancing stress responses and supporting cellular health can break the cortisol cycle in minutes.

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1. Cortisol Explained: Friend or Foe?

Cortisol is a critical stress hormone that provides energy boosts by releasing sugar and fat into the bloodstream. Dr. Sher clarifies:

"Cortisol is not inherently bad—it's essential for survival. Without it, you'd die. But modern life traps us in constant 'fight-or-flight' mode, keeping cortisol elevated."

• Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic: The autonomic nervous system has two modes:
  • Sympathetic (fight-or-flight): Activates during stress.
  • Parasympathetic (rest-and-digest): Activates during recovery.
• Delta Matters: The difference between stress spikes and recovery phases (delta) is crucial for muscle growth, endurance, and immune function. Chronic stress flattens this delta, impairing recovery.

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2. Side Effects of Chronically High Cortisol

Elevated cortisol over time leads to:

• Visceral fat accumulation: Evolutionarily designed for famine survival but harmful today.
• Mitochondrial dysfunction: Overworked mitochondria produce excess reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress and a "cell danger response" (CDR).
• Hormonal imbalance: Cortisol suppresses testosterone, growth hormone, and insulin sensitivity, causing muscle loss and fat gain.

"You don't recover in the gym—you recover after the gym in parasympathetic mode. Without it, you break down more than you build."

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3. Is Adrenal Fatigue Real?

Dr. Sher confirms adrenal fatigue exists but emphasizes lab testing:

"Chronic stress can flatten cortisol rhythms. You might feel tired and wired because your adrenals can't keep up, depleting norepinephrine and epinephrine."

• Symptoms: Poor recovery, irritability, insomnia, and midday crashes.
• Testing: Saliva or blood tests check cortisol spikes (morning) and dips (evening).

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4. Salt for Adrenal Function

Salt (sodium) supports blood volume and pressure via the mineralocorticoid hormone aldosterone, not cortisol directly.

"Salt sensitivity varies, but many benefit from it—especially if you're low-energy. Pairing salt with water improves hydration, and creatine amplifies this effect."

• Mechanism: Salt increases plasma volume and vascular tone, mimicking a mild energy boost.

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5. Nasal Breathing & Nervous System Reset

Nasal breathing activates the vagal nerve, boosting parasympathetic activity.

"Deep diaphragmatic breaths are 45x more effective than cardiac exercise at stimulating the glymphatic system, flushing brain waste."

• Practical Tip: Nasal breathing during workouts or stress reduces cortisol and enhances focus.

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6. Calming the Nervous System: GABA's Role

GABA is the brain's "brake," countering excitatory glutamate. Chronic stress depletes GABA, causing anxiety and insomnia.

"Depression isn't just low serotonin—it's often low GABA. Alcohol depletes GABA, creating a rebound effect. Avoid relying on it!"

• Supplements:
  • Agrarin (from Amanita mushroom) and Magnolia Bark (honokiol) support GABA receptors without depletion.
  • TroCalm combines these with nicotinamide riboside (B3) for sustained calming.

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7. TroCalm & Methylene Blue: Mitochondrial Protection

TroCalm downregulates the sympathetic nervous system, while Methylene Blue supports mitochondria:

"Methylene Blue acts as an antioxidant and energy booster. It helps mitochondria make ATP without excessive ROS, protecting them from oxidative damage."

• Usage: Start with low-dose Methylene Blue (4–12 mg) to avoid overstimulation, then add TroCalm to calm the nervous system.

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8. Carbs to Blunt Cortisol

Carbohydrates spike insulin, which rapidly lowers cortisol. However, this depends on metabolic health:

"If you're insulin-resistant, carbs might worsen oxidative stress. But if you're healthy, a post-workout carb bolus (e.g., honey) can reset your system."

• Timing: Take 10–15 minutes post-exercise to relax before carbs for optimal recovery.

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9. Glutamine & Gut Health

Glutamine supports gut lining repair and acts as a precursor for GABA production. Dr. Sher's interview highlights:

"A leaky gut contributes to a 'leaky brain,' worsening GABA deficiency. Healing the gut is foundational for stress resilience."

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Conclusion

Lowering cortisol isn't just about relaxation—it's about systemic support:

1. Downregulate the nervous system with TroCalm or nasal breathing.
2. Protect mitochondria with Methylene Blue and antioxidants.
3. Balance hormones via sleep, carbs (if metabolically healthy), and gut health.
4. Test and adapt: Use cortisol rhythm tests to personalize your approach.

"Cortisol isn't the enemy—it's your ally when balanced. Rebuilding your delta between stress and recovery unlocks energy, focus, and longevity."

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Resources:

• TroCalm & Methylene Blue (Use code TDLTC10 for 10% off)
• Follow Dr. Sher on Instagram: @drscottsherr
• Learn more about HBOT: Hyperbaric Medical Solutions