Cortisol AM(Cort AM)
Cortisol peaks 30–45 minutes after waking — the cortisol awakening response (CAR). A flat or inverted curve signals adrenal dysregulation or chronic stress.
Optimal range
15–20µg/dL
Clinical "normal"
6–23 µg/dL
Avg. cost (US)
$55
Test frequency
Annually; quarterly if optimizing for stress
When to measure
Within 30 min of waking, before eating or coffee.
How to measure
Serum cortisol. For chronic stress assessment, salivary or urine cortisol curves are more informative than a single morning serum value.
Average cost
≈ $55 cash price. Often covered by insurance with relevant ICD-10.
Signs your level is off
Symptoms if low
Adrenal insufficiency: fatigue, hypotension.
Symptoms if high
Chronic stress/Cushing's: weight gain, insomnia.
If your level is low
Phosphatidylserine: drowsiness
Supplement
Phosphatidylserine· 300 mg/day
Form: Soy-free
Reduces cortisol response to stress.
Foods
- Citrus
Lifestyle
- Meditation
Medication (if prescribed)
Hydrocortisone· 5-20 mg/day
Form: Oral tablet
Reference only. Speak with a licensed clinician before any prescription intervention.
Caution: Phosphatidylserine: drowsiness
If your level is high
Ashwagandha: thyroid interaction
Supplement
Ashwagandha· 600 mg/day
Form: KSM-66
Adaptogen lowering cortisol via HPA axis.
Foods
- Berries
Lifestyle
- Avoid evening HIIT
Medication (if prescribed)
Metyrapone· 500 mg/day
Form: Oral tablet
Reference only. Speak with a licensed clinician before any prescription intervention.
Caution: Ashwagandha: thyroid interaction
Test these together
These biomarkers contextualize Cortisol AM and unlock a clearer picture than any single value can.
Deeper reading
Protocols that move this marker
Selected studies
CORT 2024 PubMed; Ashwagandha meta PMC
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