Description
DUTCH CAR™ — Cortisol Awakening Response
The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) is a distinct spike in cortisol that occurs within 30–45 minutes of waking. It is one of the most clinically valuable, yet underutilised, markers of HPA axis function and stress system integrity. The DUTCH CAR is often added as an upgrade to any DUTCH test, or used as a standalone screening tool.
How It Works:
- Three dried saliva samples collected at: waking, +30 minutes, +60 minutes
- The resulting curve reveals how vigorously the brain activates the adrenal stress response each morning
What the CAR Reveals:
- Blunted CAR: Associated with burnout, chronic fatigue, PTSD, autoimmune disease, and HPA hypo-reactivity
- Exaggerated CAR: Associated with high stress load, anticipatory stress, and early-stage HPA hyperactivity
- Normal CAR: Indicates healthy stress resilience and immune readiness
Who Should Order This Test:
- Burnout, chronic fatigue syndrome, or fibromyalgia
- PTSD or severe chronic stress
- Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions
- As an add-on to DUTCH Complete™ or DUTCH Adrenal
Sample Type:
3 dried saliva collections on a single waking morning.
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