HPA axis: A Whole-Body Stress Response System with Tom Guilliams, PhD
Nov 14, 2023
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Tom Guilliams, PhD, discusses the HPA axis's role in stress management and how early life stress can impact it permanently. He debunks myths about adrenal fatigue and highlights resources for learning more. The podcast explores cortisol regulation, DHEA's counteraction to cortisol, morning cortisol testing, and the evolution of HPA axis research.
The HPA axis regulates stress beyond adrenal glands, impacting brain functions and overall health.
Salivary cortisol testing, including CAR analysis, provides insights into HPA axis function and avoids adrenal fatigue misconceptions.
Deep dives
Importance of Understanding the HPA Axis
The HPA axis plays a crucial role in managing stress and regulating various bodily functions beyond just the adrenal glands. Stress impacts the brain, interpreting information and sending signals to different parts of the body. However, popular misconceptions like adrenal fatigue oversimplify the complex interactions of the HPA axis, including the hypothalamus and pituitary. By recognizing the broader impact of the HPA axis, clinicians can better understand how stress affects glucose management, circadian rhythms, metabolism, and overall health.
Significance of Cortisol and Diurnal Rhythm Testing
Salivary cortisol testing, especially analyzing the cortisol awakening response (CAR) and diurnal curve, provides valuable insights into HPA axis function. Properly assessing cortisol fluctuations throughout the day, including the CAR peak upon waking, can reveal how stress influences circadian rhythms, energy management, and metabolic efficiency. Understanding the nuances of cortisol patterns can help avoid misinterpretations related to adrenal fatigue and optimize patient care.
DHEA's Role in Counterbalancing Cortisol
DHEA serves as a counterregulatory hormone to cortisol, balancing its effects on various bodily functions. Monitoring DHEA levels alongside cortisol assessments offers a comprehensive view of HPA axis activity and stress response. DHEA's peak following cortisol release aids in repairing processes initiated by stress, such as bone mineral density loss. Exploring the cortisol-DHEA relationship can provide insights into stress-induced dysregulations and their impact on overall health.
Exploring New Biomarkers for Stress Evaluation
While cortisol remains a key focus in stress assessment, emerging biomarkers like secretory IgA and urinary metabolites offer additional perspectives on HPA axis function. Investigating the interaction between cortisol, DHEA, and these biomarkers may enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment strategies. Further research into immune system markers, endocannabinoids, and neural hormones could unveil novel approaches to understanding and managing the complex interplay of stress on the body.
Did you know the HPA axis manages all body systems and functions like an emergency response vehicle when stressors occur? Or that early life stressors can have permanent effects on the HPA axis? Hear this and more on today’s episode of the DUTCH Podcast.
In this episode, host Jaclyn Smeaton, ND, and guest Tom Guilliams, PhD, sit down for some thought-provoking dialogue on all things stress. They discuss the misrepresentation of adrenal fatigue and how it erroneously gained traction due to poor salivary cortisol testing. And they talk about trusted resources providers can turn to when they want to learn more about the body’s complex stress response system.
Show Notes
Books to learn more about the HPA axis:
The Role of Stress and the HPA axis in Chronic Disease Management (Guilliams)