In this episode, we delve into the misconceptions surrounding cortisol, the so-called “stress hormone,” and its relationship with weight gain, high-intensity workouts, and fasting. We aim to challenge the widespread belief that stress is always detrimental to our health by exploring how it can actually lead to improved body composition and resilience.
Topics include:
• The background and functions of cortisol in the body.
• The actual relationship between cortisol and weight gain, dispelling the notion of spontaneous weight gain due to stress.
• How high-intensity exercise, contrary to popular belief, does not cause chronic cortisol elevation and can improve body composition.
• The effects of fasting on cortisol levels and its impact on fat mass, lean mass, and overall body composition.
• The role of cortisol in muscle mass and the nuances surrounding workout intensity and duration.
Referenced Articles
Batitucci et al., 2022. Intermittent fasting and HIIT exercise in obese women.
Domaszewski et al., 2020. Intermittent fasting and body composition for women over 60.
Gu et al., 2022. Meta-analysis of intermittent fasting.
Hearhaus et al., 2020. High/low cortisol reactivity and food intake.
Maillard at al., 2018. HIIT exercise and total, abdominal, and visceral fat mass.
Rimmele et al., 2007. Elite sportsmen had better adaptation to stress.
West & Phillips, 2012. Cortisol is associated with lean body mass gains.
Referenced Podcasts
on Stress Eating
on the Supposed Benefits of Fasting
