266 - Q & A: Cortisol, waist trainers, is coaching worth it, best 3 day workout routine + more!

Cortisol Myths

Danny Matranga addresses common misconceptions about cortisol, emphasizing that it is not inherently a fat-gain hormone but a stress-related catabolic hormone. He explains that cortisol, in conjunction with adrenaline, helps mobilize fuel during stress, and its chronic elevation can make fat loss challenging due to increased stress levels affecting sleep and food management 1 2. Danny argues that the fear surrounding cortisol is often sensationalized by marketers, and understanding its role can help alleviate unnecessary concerns 3.

For most people, for most healthy adults, a lot of the fear around cortisol is sensationalism sold by Fitness marketers to make you think that there is something wrong with you.

--- Danny Matranga

He suggests that managing stress and recovery can help mitigate cortisol's effects, allowing the body to function optimally 2.

   

Exercise Impact

Exercise naturally causes a spike in cortisol as part of the body's stress response, which is not inherently harmful. Danny explains that while exercise is a physical stressor, it is essential to understand that the body interprets all forms of stress similarly, whether from workouts or daily life 4. He emphasizes the importance of transitioning to a parasympathetic state post-exercise to mitigate cortisol's effects, suggesting activities like deep breathing and consuming a carbohydrate-rich meal to help lower cortisol levels 2.

When you train, you introduce a stressor. When there is a significant stressor, the body is going to release cortisol.

--- Danny Matranga

Danny reassures listeners that transient increases in cortisol from exercise are not responsible for fat gain, and managing overall stress is key to maintaining balance 4.