Cortisol is best understood over time. It naturally fluctuates throughout the day — rising in the morning, tapering off by night — and responds to what we do, how we sleep, how we eat, and how we feel.
By testing at different times of day, around different activities or stressors, we can start to see patterns. These patterns help us understand our own diurnal curve — the natural rise and fall of cortisol across a 24-hour cycle. With this insight, we can make targeted lifestyle changes to support energy, focus, recovery, and long-term health. The right number of tests depends on your lifestyle and goals. Some people benefit from daily data; others test strategically around stress, sleep changes, or specific concerns.
Basic — 4 tests/month: Get baseline hormonal insights. Capture 2 diurnal curves, or 1 diurnal curve plus 2 spot tests per month.
Intermediate — 8 tests/month: Get insight into how lifestyle factors affect cortisol levels, especially during transitions. Capture weekly diurnal curves, or 2 diurnal curves plus 2 spot tests per month.
Advanced — 12 tests/month: Get biohacker-grade insights to deep dive on stress triggers like diet, sleep, travel, or fitness. Capture weekly diurnal curves plus 4 spot tests, or design a fully personalized testing protocol.