About Cortisol Manager

I have mentioned in a couple of articles that I have been taking Cortisol Manager to relieve what I call the “grrrrrrr” symptoms of perimenopause and that it has been extremely effective. This article gives a little more information about this. I’d urge everyone, even those not going through perimenopause, to read on as an over-production of the hormone cortisol in the body is not limited to perimenopause.




First, what is cortisol? This next bit is from Wikipedia:



Cortisol (hydrocortisone) is a steroid hormone, or glucocorticoid, produced by the adrenal gland. It is released in response to stress and a low level of blood glucocorticoids. Its primary functions are to increase blood sugar through gluconeogenesis; suppress the immune system; and aid in fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism. It also decreases bone formation. During pregnancy, increased production of cortisol between weeks 30-32 initiates production of fetal lung surfactanct to promote maturation of the lungs. Various synthetic forms of cortisol are used to treat a variety of diseases.



After reading through a number of articles and talking to my doctor, I’ve learned that cortisol is a stress hormone that the body releases to trigger the fight-or-flight response to stressful or dangerous situations. It is an essential function for many reasons. However, it can also be triggered more often than is needed by a number of outside factors including:



• Extended periods of stress

• Failure to process information about light through the retinas

• Perimenopause

• Poor diet

• Being overweight or obese.



This is not an exhaustive list, but is intended to indicate that a number of factors can trigger the over-production of cortisol by the body. This can be treated by adjusting the above-mentioned factors as much as possible. For instance, regular exercise and a better balanced diet will help. However, is some cases, the contributing factors can’t be controlled. Many people are exposed to stressful situations whether at work or dealing with other crises, and we can’t just always walk away from them to relieve the pressure. I’m also particularly interested in the concept that the processing of light may play a role as this is significant to people who are blind without light perception. I’ve known for a long time that this affects sleep and know many people who take melatonin, myself included, to offset this, but I didn’t know that failure to process light can also raise production of cortisol which in turn raises stress.



When I went to my doctor regarding the constant stress I have been feeling as a result of perimenopause, she prescribed a number of things (mentioned in other articles previously), including taking Cortisol Manager, an all-natural supplement to help the body stop over-producing cortisol. All I can say is that it has totally worked for me. I take two a night after learning through experience that one is not quite enough. All that is written below about not causing grogginess or other negative side effects has also proven true in my personal experience.



Below is a description of what Cortisol Manager is including its composition and what it is intended to do. I want to be clear that I am not promoting this particular source for purchase. I have not purchased from Tsang Enterprises. I purchase mine through Lucky Dragon which is the distributor my doctor recommends and in fact, I purchase it at the clinic I use. It is important to be sure that any provider of supplements is a reputable one as there is no regulation for nutritional supplements. Having said that, this web site gives a good overview of what Cortisol Manager is and the scientific trials to support its use. I read through a number of other articles and they all say the same thing.



From Tsang Nutrition

http://tsangenterprises.com/cortisol.htm

Home of Natural Remedies & Nutritional Information



Cortisol Manager by ITI (Integrative Therapeutics)



Reduces cortisol levels for all-day stress reduction and restful sleep.



Recommendations:

For adults, take one tablet before bedtime. Increase to two tablets during times of high stress. Safe for use every night.



Ingredient per serving size of 1 tablet

Sodium 5 mg

Stress-Reducing Proprietary Blend 250 mg - ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) (Sensoril brand) root and leaf extract standardized to contain 8% withanolides and L-theanine (Suntheanine brand)

Cortisol-Reducing Proprietary Blend 225 mg - magnolia (Magnolia officinalis) bark extract standardized to contain 2% honokiol and 1% magnolol and epimedium (Epimedium koreanum) aerial part extract

Phosphatidylserine 50 mg

Other Ingredients dextrose, cellulose, modified cellulose gum, modified cellulose, magnesium stearate, stearic acid, titanium dioxide color, soy lecithin, and carnauba wax.



Contains no sugar, yeast, wheat, gluten, corn, dairy products, artificial flavoring, preservatives, or ingredients of animal origin. All colors used are from natural sources.



Warnings

Drowsiness may occur. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or consuming alcohol while using this product. If pregnant, nursing, taking prescription drugs, or if you suffer with chronic insomnia, consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use. Keep out of reach of children.



About Cortisol Manager



Cortisol Manager dietary supplement has been clinically shown to reduce cortisol levels. Cortisol Manager combines an effective dose of phosphatidylserine with documented stress-reducing ingredients and cortisol lowering botanicals to help reduce stress and relieve occasional sleeplessness. This supplement promotes relaxation and supports a healthy sleep cycle without the use of habit forming ingredients. Cortisol manager is a safe and natural formula to increase the ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, while also providing all-day stress reduction. Long-term use supports healthy cortisol levels, which in turn can help reduce stress, relieve occasional sleeplessness and fatigue, and optimize immune system and neurological function.



• Safe - promotes relaxation with no habit-forming ingredients

• Natural - will not cause morning grogginess

• Effective - 71% experienced improved sleep

• Fast Acting - reduced cortisol levels after only 24 hours



Clinical Studies



The effectiveness of Cortisol Manager dietary supplement was examined in an open label clinical trial involving 21 healthy volunteers. The combination was taken each night, and results were assessed using salivary cortisol measurements as well as self-assessment questionnaires.



The 28-day trial found that Cortisol Manager produced a dramatic reduction in stress during the course of the study. Salivary cortisol levels decreased by more than 60% after the first dose of Cortisol Manager. The effect continued throughout the duration of the study, averaging a 75-83% reduction in cortisol. No side effects were noted, and the formula was well tolerated by participants. Additionally, the participant survey revealed that:



71% of participants felt more relaxed during the day

71% experienced improved sleep

64% achieved deeper sleep, while 57% felt they fell asleep more easily

57% felt their stress level was reduced

57% felt they were better able to handle stressful situations