Stress isn't always bad. In this episode, Dr. Steve explains how "good stress" helps you survive and stay sharp, and how "bad stress" slowly tears down your body, energy, and health when it never turns off. You'll learn how adrenaline and cortisol work, why short bursts of stress can be healthy, and how chronic stress leads to weight gain, fatigue, poor sleep, and even type 2 diabetes. Dr. Steve also shares practical, natural ways to calm your system so you are not relying on more and more medications.
Why the body needs stress in short bursts for survival, focus, and performance.
Fast "alarm" phase: adrenaline kicks in within seconds to raise heart rate, breathing, and blood flow to muscles.
Follow‑up phase: cortisol arrives about 10 seconds later to keep you alert and to raise blood sugar so you have fuel to respond.
Sympathetic ("fight or flight") vs parasympathetic ("rest and digest") systems and why you must be able to shift back into calm mode.
How cortisol normally peaks in the morning to help you wake up and then should fall through the day as melatonin rises at night.
What happens with chronic stress: constant high cortisol, fatigue, anxiety, depression, weight gain (especially belly and upper back), poor immunity, high blood pressure, headaches, bone loss, and higher diabetes risk.
Signs of too little cortisol (adrenal insufficiency): fatigue, weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, dizziness, mood changes, and blood sugar swings.
Why adding more medications often creates more problems and side effects instead of real solutions.
Natural supports: morning sunlight and walking, limiting bright screens at night, simple stress‑management practices, and brief, controlled "good stress" like short sprints or cold exposure to train your body to recover.
Check out our Thrive Naturally Transformation course at drstevehughlett.com under the "Work With Us" tab to help reverse type 2 diabetes, get off medications, and regain energy and confidence in their health.
If you'd like even more information on this topic, you can go to Amazon or Audible and pick up my book, Your Plate Is Your Fate.
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this channel/podcast/publication is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medications.
