In brief: Cortisol follows a daily rhythm and is typically higher in the morning. The goal is not to keep cortisol as low as possible.
Daily rhythm
| Factor | Influence |
|---|---|
| Time of day | Very strong |
| Waking/light | Relevant |
| Sleep deprivation | Can influence values |
| Steroid medicines | Important for interpretation |
Limits of home testing
A single saliva or blood value does not prove “adrenal fatigue.” True adrenal insufficiency is diagnosed with standard medical testing.[1]
FAQ
Is high morning cortisol bad?
Not automatically.
Can coffee affect it?
Yes.
Is adrenal fatigue an accepted diagnosis?
No.
Can steroid medicines be stopped abruptly?
No.
Conclusion
Cortisol values only make sense in the context of timing, symptoms, sleep and medicines.
