What is a potential effect of excess cortisol on health?

Excess cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," can have several detrimental effects on health, one of which is increased inflammation. When cortisol levels are consistently high, the body experiences a chronic state of stress, which can lead to systemic inflammation. This inflammation occurs because elevated cortisol can impair the regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other immune responses.

Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular problems, and metabolic disorders. Therefore, it is significant to understand the role of cortisol in the inflammatory response and how its dysregulation can negatively impact overall health.

The other options do not accurately reflect the effects of excess cortisol. For example, while cortisol might cause temporary weight loss in some situations due to its effects on metabolism, chronic excess is more commonly associated with weight gain, particularly abdominal fat. Additionally, rather than improving immune function, high cortisol levels tend to suppress the immune system over time, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. Similarly, excess cortisol is not associated with enhanced muscle growth—in fact, it can lead to muscle wasting and loss of lean body mass due to its catabolic effects.