“Cortisol is produced from cholesterol through multiple enzymatic steps by specialized cells in the outer portion of the adrenal glands, small triangular-shaped structures situated on top of the kidneys. It’s secreted for at least two reasons: As a basal level it controls numerous homeostatic maintenance functions and keeps the body aligned with our circadian clock – a natural process that regulates our sleep–wake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours. And it serves as a stress response at critical moments when our body perceives the need to respond to danger”.