Supplements for cortisol
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Supplements for Cortisol Reduction
Cortitrol Supplementation and Cortisol Reduction
Cortitrol, a supplement designed to mitigate cortisol responses to stress, has shown significant efficacy in reducing serum cortisol levels. In a study involving high-intensity resistance exercise, Cortitrol significantly lowered cortisol concentrations at various time points before, during, and after exercise. Additionally, it reduced plasma adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) levels and free radical production, indicating its potential in modulating physiological stress responses and oxidative stress.
Vitamin C and Cortisol Attenuation
Vitamin C supplementation has been found to attenuate increases in circulating cortisol, adrenaline, and anti-inflammatory polypeptides following prolonged physical exertion, such as ultramarathon running. Specifically, a daily intake of 1500 mg of Vitamin C significantly reduced immediate post-race serum cortisol levels compared to lower doses or placebo, demonstrating its transient but effective role in managing adrenal stress hormone responses.
Fish Oil and Basal Cortisol Levels
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have been shown to reduce basal cortisol levels and perceived stress in abstinent alcoholics. A study revealed that a three-week supplementation with fish oil led to a significant reduction in daily cortisol secretion and stress/anxiety ratings, suggesting its potential as a supportive measure in stress management and rehabilitation programs.
Tangeretin and Exercise-Induced Cortisol
Tangeretin, a flavonoid, has been studied for its effects on cortisol stress responses induced by high-intensity resistance exercise. A four-week supplementation with tangeretin significantly decreased serum cortisol and ACTH levels in soccer players, enhancing their antioxidant capacity and reducing inflammation, which may aid in faster recovery post-exercise.
Magnolia and Phellodendron (Relora®) for Stress and Cortisol
The combination of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense, marketed as Relora®, has been effective in reducing cortisol exposure and improving mood states in moderately stressed individuals. A four-week supplementation resulted in significantly lower salivary cortisol levels and improved psychological parameters such as reduced stress, tension, depression, and fatigue, indicating its potential benefits for stress management.
Macular Carotenoids and Psychological Stress
Supplementation with macular carotenoids, including lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin, has shown to reduce psychological stress and serum cortisol levels. A 12-month study demonstrated significant improvements in stress ratings, cortisol levels, and overall emotional and physical health, suggesting the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these carotenoids as beneficial for stress reduction.
Amino Acid Mixture and Exercise-Induced Cortisol
An amino acid mixture containing arginine, valine, and serine has been found to suppress exercise-induced cortisol responses. In a study with recreationally active males, the mixture significantly reduced plasma cortisol levels post-exercise without affecting other exercise-related biological parameters, highlighting its potential in managing cortisol levels during physical activity.
Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Cortisol
Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, has been systematically reviewed for its effects on cortisol levels in stressed individuals. The review concluded that short-term supplementation with Ashwagandha effectively decreases cortisol secretion, although the long-term effects and impact on adrenal function require further investigation.
Zinc and Vitamin D Co-Supplementation
A study on the co-supplementation of zinc and vitamin D in obese individuals with depressive symptoms found significant improvements in mood but no significant effects on serum cortisol levels. This suggests that while these supplements may benefit psychological health, their direct impact on cortisol may be limited.
Conclusion
Various supplements, including Cortitrol, Vitamin C, fish oil, tangeretin, Relora®, macular carotenoids, amino acid mixtures, and Ashwagandha, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing cortisol levels and managing stress. These findings highlight the potential of dietary supplements in modulating stress responses and improving overall well-being. However, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and mechanisms of these supplements.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic