Cortisol is one of the most important hormones in your body, specifically for its role in homeostasis; helping to regulate blood sugar, blood pressure, our metabolism, and stress levels. Cortisol levels are regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. These interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands are responsible for our stress response. While beneficial in the short term, chronically elevated levels of stress are associated with countless mental and physical health disorders. Abnormalities in cortisol levels may be an indicator of pathologies like Cushing's Syndrome or simply that your body is not able to effectively handle your level of day-to-day stress. Excessive levels of cortisol may promote increased blood pressure, insulin resistance, difficulties maintaining weight, and higher risk of developing metabolic-related chronic disease. Research has shown that hair samples are one of the most reliable ways of assessing the activity of the HPA axis long term. A single strand of hair (up to 6cm in length) can provide great insight into how often and to what extent our stress response has been activated within the last 6-months. Whether you are having trouble maintaining a healthy weight or simply concerned about the effects of your daily stress on your body, a Hair Cortisol Look-Back Stress Test provides invaluable information for your healthcare providers to develop an effective individualized treatment plan for you.