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Balancing Act: Cortisol, Glycogen, and Immune Response

Navigating the complex interplay of cortisol, the limbic system, glycogen, and interferon-gamma is crucial in understanding and managing symptoms of ME/CFS and related conditions. This page delves into the pivotal role of cortisol as a regulatory hormone, its impact on immune function, and the metabolic cycles influenced by various bodily and external factors.

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Cortisol: Regulatory Hormone

Cortisol plays a critical role in regulating interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), the immune response, and metabolic balance. It acts as a sensor for metabolite sufficiency, particularly NAD+, P5P (Vitamin B6), and glucose/glycogen, and adjusts bodily responses accordingly.

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Impact on Immune Function

Elevated cortisol levels inhibit IFN-gamma, thereby providing temporary symptom relief in conditions like ME/CFS. However, this also results in a reduced capacity to suppress pathogens, creating a cyclical pattern of symptom relief and resurgence.

Metabolic Cycles and Glycogen

The balance of cortisol affects glycogen stores and overall metabolism. Managing carbohydrate intake and supporting glycogen synthesis are key to stabilizing these cycles. Factors like thyroid function and sex hormones play significant roles in these processes, influencing cortisol levels and, consequently, the immune response.

Cortisol, the Limbic System, Glycogen, and Interferon-Gamma

Cortisol's Role in IFN-gamma Regulation:

Cortisol acts as a negative regulator for IFN-gamma, influencing ME/CFS symptoms.
It serves as a sensor for NAD+, P5P, and glucose/glycogen deficiencies, impacting metabolic activities.

Key Metabolic Interactions:

Insufficient metabolites trigger an increase in cortisol, leading to heightened catabolic activity and suppression of IFN-gamma.
This cycle repeats, depending on the presence of IFN-gamma triggers and metabolite levels.

Impact of External Factors:

Exercise and heat can increase IFN-gamma levels, while dietary supplements can support its activity.
Cortisone medications are potent immunosuppressants and inhibit IFN-gamma.

Supporting Metabolite Levels:

Appropriate carbohydrate intake supports glycogen synthesis.
NMN, creatine, magnesium, and zinc are vital for maintaining metabolic pathways and P5P metabolism.

Sex Hormones and Metabolic Balance:

Primary sex hormones regulate creatine synthesis and glucose uptake based on NADPH levels.
They also influence cortisol, glycogen synthesis, and IFN-gamma activity, essential for tissue adaptations.

Limbic System's Influence:

Stress, fear, and anxiety in the limbic system promote cortisol release, reducing glycogen stores and suppressing immune response.
This can lead to a cycle of immune suppression linked with chronic stress responses.