Author: Darren Pyefinch
In the world of business, maintaining high energy levels and optimal performance is crucial for success. However, many entrepreneurs and professionals often find themselves grappling with low energy, which can hinder productivity and hinder business growth. While there can be various factors contributing to this problem, one often overlooked aspect is the role of cortisol, a vital hormone that regulates energy levels. In this blog, we will explore the connection between low cortisol in the morning and low energy, and how a cortisol test can help unlock business growth potential.
Understanding Cortisol and Its Role in Energy Regulation:
Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," is produced by the adrenal glands and plays a crucial role in regulating the body's response to stress. It follows a diurnal pattern, with levels peaking in the morning and gradually declining throughout the day. Cortisol is responsible for providing a burst of energy upon waking up, helping individuals feel alert, focused, and ready to tackle the day's challenges.
Low Cortisol in the Morning and its Impact on Energy:
When cortisol levels are insufficient upon waking up, individuals often experience a lack of energy and motivation, commonly known as "morning fatigue." This phenomenon can have detrimental effects on business performance, as low energy levels can result in decreased productivity, poor decision-making, and reduced creativity. Moreover, prolonged periods of low morning cortisol may lead to chronic fatigue and burnout, significantly hampering business growth.
The Importance of a Cortisol Test:
A cortisol test, which can be conducted through a blood, saliva, or urine sample, measures cortisol levels at different times throughout the day.
These tests are usually very expensive and you have to wait for the results and then someone to interpret them.
There is a smarter way...
Non-invasive kit was developed by the University of Venice and used by elite sports teams such as MotoGP riders Andrea Dovizioso and motor racing's Lewis Hamilton.
This uses a really cool 2-minute test where you lie down and then are connected to the kit and a laptop. This is 95% accurate to any cortisol test and also 95% accurate to DEXA for identifying muscle, fat, type 2 diabetic fat, chronic inflammation and bone levels.
This test can provide valuable insights into an individual's cortisol patterns and help identify any imbalances or abnormalities. For those experiencing low energy in the morning, a cortisol test can be especially beneficial in diagnosing low morning cortisol levels.
What are good cortisol numbers on a test?
On the graphic above you want the green line.
This shows what is called the Circadian cortisol response.
This means you have a nice big spike in the morning (5-8 am) where it goes above 3.6 and then it drops after midday to a very low level.
We tested a lady in her 50's who came to see us saying that she had no energy and couldn't lose fat.
Her number was 0.2 which is right at the bottom of the flat-low blue section above.
What this is saying is that she has virtually no cortisol firing in the morning therefore she has no energy to run her business. When you have very low morning cortisol levels you also won't burn any fat.
Benefits of Identifying Low Morning Cortisol:
- Optimising Energy Levels: By identifying low morning cortisol, individuals can take proactive steps to optimize their energy levels. They can develop personalised strategies such as adjusting sleep patterns, incorporating stress-reducing techniques, and optimising nutrition to support cortisol production.
- Enhancing Productivity and Performance: Addressing low morning cortisol can have a significant impact on productivity and overall performance. By implementing targeted interventions, individuals can experience increased focus, mental clarity, and sustained energy throughout the day, allowing them to tackle business challenges more effectively.
- Preventing Burnout: Chronic low cortisol levels can lead to burnout, a state of physical and emotional exhaustion that can be detrimental to both personal and professional well-being. By identifying and addressing low morning cortisol, individuals can take proactive measures to prevent burnout, ensuring long-term success and business growth.
Conclusion:
Business growth requires individuals to be at the top of their game, both mentally and physically. Understanding the correlation between low morning cortisol and low energy is a crucial step toward unlocking one's full potential. By undergoing a cortisol test, individuals can identify any imbalances and work towards optimising their cortisol levels, resulting in improved energy, productivity, and overall well-being. So, if you find yourself struggling with low energy in the morning, don't hesitate to explore the possibility of low cortisol levels and take the necessary steps to revitalise your business growth journey.
How do you get a cortisol test?
Automate My Fitness offers personal training and hormone testing. We have tested over 1500 people in the Milton Keynes area and offer a body MOT test for just £49 instead of RRP £129.
Book your Body MOT here:
https://automatemyfitness.com/milton-keynes-personal-trainer/
