Cortisol reacts with numerous intracellular GRs (Table 11.2) to exert diverse biologic actions (see Chapter 21). Cortisol regulates many functions, including arousal, cognition, mood, sleep, metabolism, maintenance of cardiovascular tone, the immune and antiinflammatory responses, and growth and reproduction.
This reminds me of the commercials that discuss lowering cortisol levels for weight loss. I have recently been reading about how lymphatic drainage, red light therapy and apple cider vinegar can potentially help to lower cortisol levels.
Stress plays a large role in cortisol levels. As mentioned by the author, cortisol regulates mood and sleep. Whenever I am stressed, I have difficulty falling asleep and I tend to be moody.