Latest Hormonal Research
Check out the latest research below on Cortisol, Melatonin, Inflammatoin, and Glucose. Dive into a world of expert analysis, real-life experiences, and cutting-edge approaches.
Service Dogs Boost Morning Cortisol Levels in Veterans with PTSD
Published By:
Nieforth et al.
Published On:
Jan 19, 2024
Published Link:
A recent study found that veterans with PTSD who have service dogs exhibit a higher morning cortisol awakening response compared to those without. This suggests that service dogs may help regulate stress responses in veterans.
What Exactly They Discovered:
Researchers conducted a three-month clinical trial to assess the impact of service dogs on the cortisol awakening response (CAR) in veterans with PTSD. The study included 245 participants, with 88 veterans receiving a service dog and 73 veterans receiving usual care. Salivary cortisol samples were collected immediately upon waking, 30 minutes after waking, and 45 minutes after waking on three consecutive weekdays at the start and end of the trial. Results showed that veterans with service dogs had a significantly higher CAR compared to those without. This increase in morning cortisol levels suggests a less blunted stress response. The study controlled for various factors, including sleep quality and prior day experiences. The findings indicate that service dogs may help normalize cortisol levels in veterans with PTSD. This suggests a potential physiological benefit of service dogs in managing PTSD symptoms.
Why It Matters:
Understanding the impact of service dogs on cortisol levels is crucial for developing effective PTSD treatments. Elevated morning cortisol levels can indicate better stress regulation and overall health. Veterans with PTSD often have blunted cortisol responses, leading to various health issues. This research shows that service dogs can positively influence cortisol levels, improving stress responses. The findings support the inclusion of service dogs in PTSD treatment plans. By improving physiological stress markers, service dogs can enhance the quality of life for veterans. This research also highlights the need for further studies on the long-term benefits of service dogs. The study provides valuable insights into non-pharmacological interventions for PTSD.
How It Applies to Corti:
Corti’s device, which monitors cortisol and melatonin levels in real-time, can be an essential tool in applying these research findings. By tracking cortisol levels, Corti can help veterans monitor their stress responses and optimize their interactions with service dogs. Real-time data on cortisol can provide insights into the effectiveness of service dogs in regulating stress. Corti’s technology can alert users to abnormal cortisol patterns, suggesting adjustments or additional support. This integration can enhance personalized PTSD treatment plans, improving health outcomes. Corti aligns with the study’s findings by offering a comprehensive solution for monitoring and managing stress. By leveraging real-time data, Corti can support the health and well-being of veterans with PTSD, enhancing the benefits of service dogs.
