We all experience stress. How well we tolerate it depends heavily on our adrenal glands — the organs that produce adrenaline and cortisol.
Adrenaline
The “quick response” hormone. It helps us react rapidly and think fast.
Caffeine increases adrenaline output, which is why coffee can heighten stress responses.
Cortisol
Cortisol helps us adapt to prolonged stress. It changes metabolism, influences blood clotting, and shifts how we store energy.
Chronic cortisol release leads to well-known issues, especially increased abdominal fat.
Vitamin C, Cortisol, and New Understanding
In his book The Only Cause of Disease, Dr. Thomas E. Levy outlines how Vitamin C deficiency may trigger excessive cortisol production.
Why?
When Vitamin C is low, the body attempts to compensate by increasing cortisol, which in turn stimulates the liver to recycle or uptake more Vitamin C.
This concept was new to me — but it makes sense.
Vitamin C is essential for:
- Processing toxins
- Healing connective tissues (ligaments, tendons)
- Balancing immune function
- Managing inflammation
When we don’t get enough Vitamin C, the body adapts — but at a cost. Excess cortisol leads to further stress-related problems.
How Much Vitamin C Do You Need?
I will be launching a new monitoring program for Vitamin C levels in January 2026.
Stay tuned for details.
