Dr. Mitchell Rasmussen explores the paradoxical relationship between high cortisol levels and persistent inflammation, breaking down the complex feedback loops that keep many patients trapped in chronic stress and inflammatory states.

• Cortisol is designed to be anti-inflammatory but often fails when stress becomes chronic
• Body inflammation leads to brain inflammation, creating a self-reinforcing cycle
• Poor receptor response to cortisol occurs despite high blood levels
• Vitamin D deficiency contributes to cortisol resistance through receptor dysregulation
• Mitochondrial dysfunction prevents cortisol from performing its anti-inflammatory role
• Brain inflammation reduces vagal nerve tone, increasing gut inflammation
• Identifying personal inflammation triggers is essential for breaking the cycle
• Simple interventions like proper chewing activate the vagus nerve and reduce inflammation
• Addressing nutrient deficiencies supports proper nervous system function
• Removing inflammatory foods is often the first step while waiting for comprehensive testing

Want to take the next step with functional medicine? Learn more about our new patient process and lab testing at www.thefacilitydenver.com 

For more insights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on Instagram @thefacilitydenver 

Join our email list for monthly updates + offers. 

Stay curious, stay proactive, and we’ll catch you next time!