General
Cortisol Awakening Response
The Cortisol Awakening Response saliva test provides information about the body's natural cortisol rhythms and response to stress, which may be useful in understanding various physical and mental health conditions.
See what is measuredAbout this test
The cortisol awakening response (CAR) is a natural increase in cortisol that occurs in response to waking in the morning. Normally cortisol is highest in the morning, shortly after waking, and gradually decrease throughout the day. The CAR is a sharp increase in cortisol that occurs within the first 30-45 minutes after waking, typically peaking around 30 minutes. This increase in cortisol levels is thought to be a natural response to the body's need to mobilise energy and prepare for the demands of the day. The CAR has been studied as a marker of the body's response to stress and has been associated with various physical and mental health outcomes, such as depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Researchers have also explored the relationship between the CAR and sleep quality, with some studies suggesting that disrupted sleep patterns may interfere with the CAR.
What we measure
CORTISOL AWAKENING RESPONSE
The cortisol awakening response (CAR) is a natural increase in cortisol that occurs in response to waking in the morning.
- Cortisol Morning
- Cortisol levels are generally high in the morning as we wake from a prolonged period of sleep, with an increase of up to 50% in the first half an hour after waking.
- Cortisol Midday
- As the day progresses cortisol levels naturally begin to drop in a fairly constant and regular fashion that is termed a diurnal rhythm.
- Cortisol Afternoon
- Cortisol levels continue to decline throughout the afternoon as part of the natural diurnal rhythm.
- Cortisol Evening
- Cortisol levels drop very low in the evening and during the early phase of sleep which allows the body to keep a regular sleeping pattern.
- DHEA-S
- A long-acting adrenal hormone which regulates energy production, the immune system, brain chemistry, bone formation, muscle tone and libido.
What happens next
- 01
Order your test
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- 02
Follow your collection instructions
Preparation and collection vary by test. Follow the instructions provided for your specific test; contact us if anything is unclear.
- 03
Explore your results
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