How Natural Cortisol Impacts Your Body

8. Low Potassium

The kidneys filter toxins with the help of glomeruli. Cortisol increases the kidney’s glomerular filtration rate, which causes an electrolyte imbalance, specifically in potassium. Because the hormone promotes salt and water retention, an increase in sodium essentially pushes out potassium, leading to hypokalemia or low potassium. This condition increases the risk of heart problems, including palpitations and cardiac arrest.