Cortisol Demystified: Stress, Immune Health, and Natural Management Strategies
Health Decoded
Unlock your full human potential with the Health Decoded podcast as hosts Dr. Alessi and Matt Tack break down the truth about all things health and empower you to take charge of your well-being.
Dr. Alfred AlessiMatt Tack

Cortisol Demystified: Stress, Immune Health, and Natural Management Strategies

S3 E21 • May 27, 2025 • 29 mins

In this episode, Dr. Alfred Alessi and Matt Tack begin by introducing the Health Foundations and the Alessi Total Care Program. They delve into the critical hormone cortisol, exploring its functions, the effects of stress, and the impact of imbalances. The discussion highlights cortisol's role in immune function, supported by case study insights. Effective methods for cortisol testing and stress assessment are examined, followed by a comprehensive guide to natural cortisol management. The episode emphasizes lifestyle interventions and personalized health planning with Alessi Functional Health. It concludes with a final call to action and closing remarks, offering listeners practical approaches to managing cortisol and stress effectively.

Key Points

  • Elevated cortisol levels, while essential for short-term stress responses, can lead to chronic health issues such as weight gain, insomnia, and immune dysfunction when persistently high.
  • Properly assessing cortisol levels requires comprehensive testing, like the cortisol awakening response and Dutch test, rather than relying on single blood cortisol measurements.
  • Restoring cortisol balance involves lifestyle changes including breath work, blood sugar stabilization, gut health improvement, and maintaining a consistent circadian rhythm, complemented by adaptogens and moderate exercise.
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