What is the HPA Axis AKA The Stress Response
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The HPA Axis, or stress response system, is a crucial control center in the body that regulates various bodily functions. It works alongside the HPG Axis and the HPT Axis to modulate the stress response. The HPA Axis is responsible for regulating the adrenal glands, cortisol levels, thyroid hormones, sex hormones, blood sugar levels, immune system, neurotransmitters, and more.
The HPA Axis is triggered by the nervous system, which compares sensory information to prior learning. If the prior experience was negative or if there is no prior learning, the stress response is activated. Excitatory neurochemicals are released, providing energy and focus, while blood sugar levels increase for quick energy. The immune system is suppressed, and gonadal hormones are altered to prioritize fight or flight over procreation.
Once the threat is gone, the vagus nerve and the HPA Axis work together to shut down the stress response and trigger the relaxation response. This allows the immune system to assess and repair any damage that occurred during the stress response.
However, dysregulation in the HPA Axis can lead to various issues. Cortisol loses its ability to suppress inflammation, resulting in systemic inflammation, disrupted sleep, decreased libido, and mood dysregulation. The immune system goes into overdrive, releasing inflammatory cytokines. The brain tries to reduce stress by making the nervous system less sensitive, but extreme threats can cause a release of large amounts of stress hormones. The gut microbiome is also affected, altering the balance of neurotransmitters and hormones.
For more detailed information on the HPA Axis and mood, long-form videos are available at allceus.com/HPA-axis. Continuing education units (CEUs) on this topic can also be found at allceus.com/HPA-CEU.
The HPA Axis, or stress response system, is a crucial control center in the body that regulates vari