Most of us are aware that stress can increase risks for certain conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, impaired immune function and psychological disorders. But now, a study suggests a link between high levels of cortisol – a stress hormone – and short-term memory loss in older individuals.

The researchers, from the University of Iowa (UI), publish their findings in the Journal of Neuroscience.

They note that although short-term boosts in cortisol are important for our survival – by making us more alert in the moment – exceptionally high or extended spikes in the stress hormone can yield negative effects, such as digestion problems, anxiety, weight gain and high blood pressure.

via Stress linked to short-term memory loss in aging adults – Medical News Today.