Stress and Weight Gain: Dr. Wendy Christine on Cortisol, Cravings, and Holistic Stress Management

In this episode on Radio Cape Pulpit, host Anton Brink welcomes Dr. Wendy Christine to discuss the connection between stress and weight gain. Dr. Christine unpacks how cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, contributes to weight gain through several interconnected mechanisms: hormonal changes, cravings for high-calorie comfort foods, disrupted eating patterns, reduced physical activity, poor sleep, and metabolic changes. She explains how excess cortisol causes the body to store fat, particularly around the belly, and increases the risk of chronic disease. She also highlights how stress disrupts the sleep-wake cycle by producing cortisol at the wrong times of day, and how elevated cortisol combined with insulin resistance can lead to inflammation and metabolic disorders. Dr. Christine emphasises that stress management is vital and encourages a holistic approach that includes regular movement, mindfulness, adequate sleep, meaningful social connections, and healthier coping mechanisms. She reminds listeners that exercise doesn't have to mean running a marathon—simple activities like walking the dog, playing with children, or doing a few star jumps at your desk can make a difference. The episode closes with her contact details for listeners who want to reach out.