116. Chronic Stress In Women…How It Hijacks Our Hormones And Our Weight Loss Goals (And What We Can Do About It!)

In today's episode of the SWLC Podcast, Lisa Oldson, MD opens up about an intensely personal period of acute stress, and uses that story to jump into the science behind chronic stress, hormonal shifts, and weight gain in women.If you've ever wondered why it's harder to lose weight when you're overwhelmed, burned out, or constantly caring for everyone else first, this episode is your roadmap. Dr. Lisa breaks down how long-term stress disrupts hormones like cortisol, ghrelin, insulin, and leptin, creating powerful cravings for comfort foods and making weight loss feel impossible. Especially for women.You’ll learn:The difference between acute and chronic stress—and how each affects appetiteWhy ghrelin is more than just a "hunger hormone"How stress-related hormone shifts lead to abdominal fat, leptin resistance, and overeatingWhy weight gain under stress is not your fault, and what science says we can do about itThe critical role of support, therapy, medications, and mindful self-compassion in lasting changeThis is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever blamed themselves for weight gain under stress. There’s real science behind it...And there’s hope.Thanks for listening! If you'd like more support during your SMART weight loss & health focused journey, sign up for our FREE newsletter, or check out our program at: www.SmartWeightLossCoaching.com. We would love to help you reach your happy weight, and transform the way you talk to yourself about your body and the number on the scale. Negative thoughts about yourself don't have to take up so much brain space, and we'd be honored to help you reframe those thoughts. Also…We’d be grateful if you'd follow us and share our podcast with your friends & family. We’re here to help you improve your health, live longer, healthier, and lose weight the SMART way!This episode was produced by The Podcast Teacher: www.ThePodcastTeacher.com.The Smart Weight Loss Coaching Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.