(March 2015) Alkalosis is the result of a process reducing hydrogen ion concentration of arterial blood plasma (alkalemia). In contrast to acidemia (serum pH 7.35 or lower), alkalemia occurs when the serum pH is higher than normal (7.45 or higher).
Dietary choices that cause inflammation also raise cortisol levels. Deficiencies in certain nutrients, a diet high in processed foods and high-glycemic carbs, caffeine and excess alcohol can cause circulating levels of cortisol to rise.
Causes of too much cortisol are: 1  Cushing disease, which occurs when the pituitary gland makes too much of the hormone ACTH. 2  ACTH then signals the adrenal glands to produce too much cortisol. 3  A pituitary gland tumor can cause this condition.