Cortisol awakening response

The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) is the natural increase in cortisol, a stress hormone, that occurs shortly after waking up. Typically, cortisol levels peak within 30 to 45 minutes after awakening, helping the body become alert and ready for the day. This response varies among individuals and can be influenced by stress, sleep quality, and overall health. Monitoring CAR can provide insights into how well your body's stress regulation system is functioning and may help identify issues related to sleep, mental health, or chronic stress.