Ep 62: High-Intensity Training for a Happy Gut and Balanced Hormones with Leigh Merotto

Exercise isn’t just about burning calories - it also impacts your hormones, your digestion, and your overall health. Here’s what science says about how to move in a way that truly supports your bodyIn this episode, I'm joined by Leigh Merotto from GutFit Nutrition to explore how your body responds to exercise, especially high-intensity movement like running. We break down why digestive symptoms can arise when you ramp up your workouts, how cortisol affects your hormones and energy, and practical strategies to move safely and sustainably. What we cover in this episode:How exercise intensity impacts digestion and how to prevent symptomsUnderstanding high-intensity exercise and why it’s beneficial when done rightCortisol explained: its natural rhythms, temporary spikes from exercise, and when stress accumulatesSafe ways to start high-intensity workouts while supporting hormone and gut healthExercising on your period: what you need to knowFuelling strategies to maximize performance, recovery, and overall wellbeing Whether you’re looking to boost energy, improve digestive function, or support hormone balance, this episode gives science-backed insights and practical strategies to make exercise a tool for health, not stress. Episode links:GutFit Nutrition website: https://www.gutfitnutrition.comLeighs' instagram: InstagramLogin • Instagram00:00 – Intro01:42 – Digestive symptoms & exercise intensityHow endurance training affects the gut, why runners are most impacted, and what’s happening physiologically when exercise triggers GI symptoms.13:51 – What counts as high-intensity exerciseDefinition of high intensity, RPE scale explained, and how to gauge intensity using heart rate zones.20:09 – Cortisol: spikes, rhythms, and stressUnderstanding cortisol’s role, myths around it, and how short-term vs. chronic stress impacts hormones and recovery.23:32 – Overload: over-exercising, under-fuelling & life stressHow fasted workouts, calorie deficits, and lack of recovery elevate cortisol and affect gut and hormonal health.26:59 – 4 ways to start high-intensity exercise safelyLeigh’s framework: balance training, schedule rest, avoid fasted sessions, and manage life stress for recovery.33:59 – Exercising on your periodDebunking myths about exercise and menstrual cycles, the truth about performance changes, and listening to your body.38:55 – Pre- & post-run fuelling strategiesLeigh’s personal fueling routine before race day and her practical tips for optimizing energy, digestion, and performance.