What is a good cortisol kevel

A healthy cortisol level follows a specific daily pattern. In a healthy individual, cortisol levels are typically highest in the morning, around 45 minutes after waking. This spike helps with waking up and generally sets you up for the day, supporting mood, alertness, and immune function. Throughout the day, cortisol should gradually decrease and be quite low by the afternoon and evening, allowing for restful sleep at night 1 2.

Dr. Andy Galpin notes that the normative values of cortisol can vary significantly based on the method of measurement and factors like age and sex. Typically, for a morning measurement, values around 5 to 25 micrograms per deciliter are considered normal. However, a single measurement isn't very informative, as cortisol levels vary throughout the day. Creating a curve by taking multiple measurements is more beneficial in understanding your cortisol pattern 2.

Managing cortisol levels intentionally is crucial. Regular peaks and quick returns to baseline are ideal, whereas consistently high cortisol, especially in the afternoon, can signal issues such as certain forms of depression 3 4. Remember that your body's need for cortisol varies, and unnecessary suppression might hinder adaptation, particularly with physical training 3 4.