121: All-things-cortisol in perimenopause. Are levels usually high or low? Should we test cortisol? If so, how? Everything you need to know!

Cortisol plays a critical role in how your body handles stress, energy, and metabolism—but in perimenopause, it can easily become imbalanced, leading to fatigue, weight gain, anxiety, and disrupted sleep. In this episode, Tara unpacks everything you need to know about cortisol, including why adrenal testing often isn’t necessary and what really works to regulate stress hormones. If you’ve ever been told your cortisol is “too high” or “too low” and left wondering what to do about it, this episode will bring clarity. Tara shares practical, effective strategies to support your adrenals and feel more balanced—without wasting money on unnecessary tests or expensive supplements.   In this episode:  What cortisol actually does in the body—why it’s not “bad” and is essential for survival How perimenopause makes you more stress-sensitive and why that leads to symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, and weight gain The truth about adrenal testing—why it often gives misleading results and doesn’t change the approach to healing The biggest contributors to cortisol dysregulation—including diet, lifestyle, and nervous system health Practical, effective ways to support your adrenals without relying on gimmicks or unnecessary supplements Why blood sugar balance is crucial for cortisol regulation and how to stabilize it throughout the day The role of minerals in adrenal function and how to replenish what stress depletes The connection between cortisol and sleep issues—how to improve rest without relying on melatonin or sleeping pills What women in perimenopause should prioritize first before considering any form of cortisol testing     MARCH 2025 LIVE TRAINING! THE PERIMENOPAUSE RESET: From rollercoaster hormones to feeling better in midlife than you did in your 20s. Your Proven 3-Step Roadmap to Thrive in Perimenopause — Naturally and Confidently. PLUS! The myths & lies that might be the reason you are feeling like a stranger in your own body.   [ CLICK HERE TO SAVE YOUR SPOT ]   Mentioned in this episode: BON CHARGE - Save 15% when you use Tara's code: THORNE15 HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script. Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications. The Hormone Balance Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were. [FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).   BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE