In a study of 75 men and women, UK experts noted that subjects showed steeper increases in the stress hormone cortisol on workday mornings than on days off. Since this rise occurred within 30 minutes of waking up, the mere anticipation of work may trigger job-related stress, according to Dr Andrew Steptoe and his team at University College London.

What was most interesting in the findings was that cortisol levels during the rest of the workday were similar to those on days off. Earlier research has shown similar results with some evidence suggesting the early-morning increase in cortisol is highest among people with high job stress.

In the study, Dr Steptoe and his team measured cortisol levels in the participants’ saliva. Samples were taken immediately upon waking, 30 minutes after waking and every two hours until late evening. Regardless of the day, the participants’ cortisol levels were highest in the morning. The sharpest increase however occurred 30 minutes after waking on workdays.

Information provided is courtesy of and compiled by the Academy of Anti-aging Research staff, editors, and other reports.

Cortisol is one hormone that is pro-aging. The hormone plays a key role in regulating metabolism, blood pressure and cardiovascular function, and it suppresses immune system activity. Cortisol also helps the body respond to stress, mobilizing the body and preparing it for vigorous activity. Excessive cortisol levels are believed to wear on the heart, brain, metabolism and other bodily functions. Cortisol levels naturally wax and wane over the course of a day, peaking in the morning and declining through the afternoon and morning.

Besides stress, cortisol level also goes up with high sugar intake. Taking desert at night will increase the cortisol level. A high cortisol level also inhibits the release of growth hormone level in our body. Growth hormone is one anti-aging hormone we need more of during the aging process.

The lesson from this study is simple: reduce stress and live longer!