Cortisol and DIGIN Framework Quiz

DIGIN Framework

• D-Digestion, I-Intestinal permeability, G-Gastrointestinal Flora, I-Immune regulation, E-Enteric Nervous System

Cortisol Functions

• Stimulates liver to convert amino acids to glucose
• Increases glucagon in the liver
• Mobilizes fatty acids in blood
• Enhances coagulation
• Suppresses parts of the immune response

Prolonged Cortisol Effects

• Promotes fat deposits and increases blood pressure
• Increases protein breakdown and bone demineralization
• Leads to immune suppression, memory loss, depression, and elevated blood sugar levels

Sterogenic Pathway

• Cholesterol (CHL) ➔ Pregnenolone ➔ 17-OH Pregnenolone ➔ Progesterone ➔ 11-Deoxyprogesterone

DHEA Functions

• Precursor for testosterone and estrogen
• Reverses immunosuppression from excessive cortisol
• Stimulates bone remodeling and lowers cholesterol levels
• Enhances muscle mass and aids in T4 to T3 conversion
• Accelerates recovery from acute stress

General Adaptation Syndrome Stages

• Stage 1: Asymptomatic arousal with increased cortisol and DHEA
• Stage 2: Chronic stress with elevated cortisol and decreased DHEA, leading to stress-related symptoms
• Stage 3: Adrenal depletion with decreased cortisol and DHEA, resulting in fatigue and depression

Adrenal Dysfunction Symptoms

• Fatigue, memory loss, over-reaction to stress, and high adrenaline symptoms

Adrenaline Symptoms

• High levels: weight loss, anxiety, palpitations, hypertension, glucose fluctuations
• Low levels: orthostatic hypotension, lack of focus, non-restful sleep

Cortisol Steal Concept

• Increased cortisol may inhibit production and activity of sex hormones (progesterone, estrogen, DHEA, testosterone)

HPA Axis Conditions

• Conditions associated with elevated cortisol: chronic diseases, melancholic depression, panic disorders
• Conditions associated with depressed HPA axis: atypical depression, PTSD, fibromyalgia

Thyroid Function and Stress

• Hypothalamic release of TRH stimulates TSH from the pituitary gland, leading to thyroid hormone production

Thyroid Dysfunction Factors

• Influenced by stress, inflammation, dietary factors, gluten sensitivity, and metals

Key Nutrients for Thyroid Health

• Zinc, selenium, iron, iodine, vitamins D and A are essential for thyroid regulation

Medication Interference with T4-T3 Conversion

• Common medications hindering conversion include beta-blockers, estrogen replacements, and lithium

Oxidative Stress and Energy Production

• Necessary for energy production but excessive oxidative stress can harm the body
• Key nutrients for ATP synthesis: riboflavin (B2) and niacin (B3)

Protective Measures Against Oxidative Damage

• Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, E, and alpha-lipoic acid, help inhibit inflammation and oxidative damage.

General Adaptation Syndrome Overview

• Symptoms develop through three stages: arousal, adaptation, and exhaustion, corresponding to cortisol and DHEA levels

Chelation and Detoxification Strategies

• 5 R program: Remove, Replace, Re-inoculate, Repair, and Rebalance

Neurodegenerative Disease Markers

• Cystine to cysteine ratio and oxidative damage indicated by 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine levels

Mitochondria Health

• Key in energy production and hormone synthesis, with dysfunction primarily affecting the brain and skeletal muscle

Arsenic Exposure Risks

• Commonly found in meat, fish, wine, water, and rice; early signs may include neuropathy

Meditation Benefits

• Proven to increase serotonin levels in the central nervous system

Summary of Inflammatory Signs

• Presence of tumor, rubor (redness), calor (heat), dolor (pain), and loss of function.

Manganese Toxicity

• Linked to Parkinson-like symptoms, including tremors, irritability, and mood changes

Test your knowledge on the DIGIN framework related to digestion, intestinal permeability, and how cortisol affects the body. This quiz covers the functions of cortisol, its prolonged effects, and the steroidogenic pathway. Challenge yourself and see how well you understand these critical concepts in physiology.