S Is for Stress and Cortisol

In this episode of The Habit Healers Podcast, Dr. Laurie Marbas uncovers one of the most underestimated drivers of insulin resistance: stress—and the cortisol spikes that come with it.We often blame food, age, or a busy schedule for our fatigue and cravings, but the real story is deeper. Dr. Marbas breaks down how everyday stressors—traffic, lack of sleep, overflowing inboxes, even skipped meals—activate an ancient survival system that quietly raises blood sugar, intensifies cravings, disrupts sleep, and exhausts your metabolism.You’ll learn:* How cortisol actually works and why modern life keeps it elevated* The subtle sources of stress that trigger blood sugar spikes* Why stress can feel like sudden hunger or uncontrollable cravings* The hormonal cascade linking stress → sugar → insulin → energy crashes* A simple, powerful micro habit—the 4-7-8 breath—that helps slow the cycle and retrain your nervous system* When stress signals a deeper issue worth discussing with a providerDr. Marbas also walks you through a weekly micro habit plan you can start today, plus reflection prompts to help you recognize your stress patterns and regain metabolic control.If you’re looking for a practical, compassionate way to calm your body, steady your blood sugar, and build trust in your metabolism again, this episode is your starting point.You’re just one healing habit away.Dr. Marbas Substack: https://drlauriemarbas.substack.com/A Big Thank You To Our Sponsors:If you want the best supplement to help you on your plant-based journey, you have to try Complement: https://lovecomplement.com/?aff=62 Get full access to The Habit Healers at drlauriemarbas.substack.com/subscribe