Aspergers and Low Cortisol: A New Therory for Aspergers
A new theory has been proposed that may explain the development of Aspergers. The new theory suggests that some of the symptoms of Aspergers (e.g., need for routine and resistance to change) could be linked to low levels of the stress hormone Cortisol. The body produces Cortisol, among other hormones, in stressful situations. Cortisol increases blood pressure and blood sugar levels, among other duties, to signal the body’s need to adapt to changes occurring around it. It’s thought that the increase in Cortisol shortly after waking helps jump-start the brain for the day ahead. Normally, individuals have a surge of this hormone shortly after waking, with levels gradually decreasing throughout the day. It is thought this surge makes the brain alert, preparing the body for the day and helping the individual to be aware of changes happening around them. Researchers have discovered that Aspergers kids do not experience this surge. Cortisol is one of a family of stress hormones