Stress is absolutely a staller, so is lack of sleep and depression. All these factors - which came first, the stall or the stress, the stall or the lack of sleep... - produce excess cortisol. It can all become a vicious cycle in many individuals.

Lack of sleep also supresses HGH. Here's more on the function of cortisol:

What Cortisol Does

Mobilizes and increases amino acids, the building blocks of protein, in the blood and liver.

Stimulates the liver to convert amino acids to glucose, the primary fuel for energy production.

Stimulates increased glycogen in the liver. Glycogen is the stored form of glucose.

Mobilizes and increases fatty acids in the blood (from fat cells) to be used as fuel for energy production.

Counteracts inflammation and allergies.

Prevents the loss of sodium in urine and thus helps maintain blood volume and blood pressure.

Maintains resistance to stress (e.g., infections, physical trauma, temperature extremes, emotional trauma, etc.).

Maintains mood and emotional stability.


What Excess Cortisol Does

Diminishes cellular utilization of glucose.

Increases blood sugar levels.

Decreases protein synthesis.

Increases protein breakdown that can lead to muscle wasting.

Causes demineralization of bone that can lead to osteoporosis.

Interferes with skin regeneration and healing.

Causes shrinking of lymphatic tissue

Diminishes lymphocyte numbers and functions

Lessens SIgA (secretory antibody productions). This immune system suppression may lead to increased susceptibility to allergies, infections, and degenerative disease.

So, having excess cortisol is definitely something you don't want, low-carb wise or not!

Karen