Excess cortisol can have numerous negative impacts on the body. Which of the following is NOT one of them?

Excess cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, is known to have various detrimental effects on the body, primarily due to its role in the stress response and metabolism. While it is acknowledged for promoting several physiological changes, it actually has an immunosuppressive effect rather than an enhancing effect on immune response.

When cortisol levels are elevated, it can lead to increased muscle breakdown as the body starts to utilize amino acids from muscles for energy, resulting in muscle atrophy. Additionally, high cortisol levels can inhibit insulin sensitivity, contributing to poor glucose regulation, as the hormone affects glucose metabolism and promotes insulin resistance. Furthermore, cortisol is known to promote the accumulation of fat, particularly in visceral regions, leading to increased fat storage.

Therefore, enhanced immune response is not characteristic of high cortisol levels. Instead, chronic elevations of cortisol can lead to a weakened immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses. This points out why enhanced immune response is the correct choice as it is not an impact associated with excess cortisol.