Cortisol Assessment

What is the Cortisol Assessment?

Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by your adrenal glands and is involved in a variety of bodily functions, including stress response, blood sugar regulation, and immune function. At Ember, your cortisol levels can be checked via blood, saliva, or urine to assess your stress response and adrenal function. Ember Naturopathic, partners with various leading medical laboratories, to provide you with accurate and reliable test results.

Person with long hair stretching arms above head while lying in a bright room with large windows.
Woman seated at home office desk, gesturing while using laptop; bookshelves and natural light in background.

Why is the Cortisol Assessment Important?

Cortisol plays an important role in a variety of bodily functions, including:

  • Stress response: Cortisol is involved in your body's response to stress and can affect your mood, energy levels, and mental clarity.

  • Blood sugar regulation: Cortisol helps regulate your blood sugar levels and can affect your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

  • Immune function: Cortisol plays a role in your immune function and may affect your susceptibility to infections and other illnesses.

Who Should Get a Cortisol Assessment?

A Cortisol Assessment may be recommended if you:

  • Have symptoms of adrenal dysfunction, such as fatigue, insomnia, or weight gain.

  • Are undergoing treatment for adrenal dysfunction.

  • Have symptoms of chronic stress, such as anxiety, depression, or digestive problems.

  • Have a history of autoimmune disease.

How to Prepare for the Cortisol Assessment

Follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding fasting or medication restrictions.
Inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you are taking, as these may affect the test results.
For the morning cortisol blood test, you must have your blood drawn in the morning.
For the saliva and urine cortisol tests, you will collect samples 4 times over 24 hours. Follow the detailed instructions that are provided.

What to Expect During the Cortisol Assessment

The Cortisol Assessment Blood Test is a simple blood test that takes only a few minutes to complete. A medical professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. You may feel a slight pinch or stinging sensation when the needle is inserted, but the test is generally painless. After the test, you can resume your normal activities.


The Cortisol Assessment saliva or urine test is a simple test that involves collecting saliva or urine samples at designated time intervals throughout the day. You will receive instructions on how to collect the samples and where to send them for analysis. The test is painless and can be completed in the comfort of your own home.

Woman in striped shirt using a laptop on a living room sofa, wearing glasses, sitting near white slippers.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR

Cortisol Assessment Results

Once your Cortisol Assessment results are available, your Ember Naturopathic healthcare provider will review them with you. Your results will be compared to optimal ranges to determine if your cortisol levels are within a healthy range. Abnormal results may indicate an adrenal dysfunction or chronic stress that requires further evaluation.

Conclusion

The Cortisol Assessment is a vital tool for assessing your stress response and adrenal function and ensuring that your body has the cortisol it needs to function properly. Ember Naturopathic, offers this essential test to help you maintain optimal health. Trust our experienced medical professionals to provide you with accurate and reliable test results. Schedule your Cortisol Assessment with Ember Naturopathic today.

Not sure if you’re ready?

We’re here to help you.

Book a complimentary meet-and-greet with any of our practitioners.


This is a 15 minute phone or video call where we briefly discuss your health concerns, how (or if) we can help, and decide if working together would be the right fit for you.

Phone: 403-245-3158