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 test
Cortisol Awakening Response
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. This is known as the ‘cortisol awakening response’.
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. This is known as the ‘cortisol awakening response’.
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. This is known as the ‘cortisol awakening response’.
Total CAR measures the total amount of cortisol released during the first 30-45 mins after waking, which includes both the initial peak and subsequent decline in cortisol.
A long-acting adrenal hormone which regulates energy production, the immune system, brain chemistry, bone formation, muscle tone and libido.
A high cortisol to DHEA ratio has been linked to increased inflammation, suppressed immune function, hyperglycaemia, as well as impaired detoxification, skeletal health and cognitive function.
The cortisol awakening response (CAR) is a period of increased cortisol secretory activity initiated by morning awakening and typically peaking between 30 and 45min post awakening
A significant burst of cortisol in the immediate awakening period (within 20 min) followed by a steep decline in levels has been shown to be a better measure of CAR and health status.
Cortisol Diurnal Rhythm
As the day progresses cortisol levels naturally begin to drop in a fairly constant and regular fashion that is termed a diurnal rhythm, ending up as low in the late evening.
As the day progresses cortisol levels naturally begin to drop in a fairly constant and regular fashion that is termed a diurnal rhythm, ending up as low in the late 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.
Test instructions
Your test kit and all instructions are posted directly to you, and there is no need to visit a collection centre.
Collect your saliva samples at set times during the day.
Mail your sample back to the lab according to the instructions provided with your kit
Results for this test available in 10-12 business days from when the sample is received back and will be published in your online dashboard.
You may also be interested in
Adrenal Stress Check
Female Hormone Check (saliva)
Sleep Hormone Check
Looking for something specific?
Contact us