How Stress and Cortisol Wreck Your Metabolism
The Hidden Metabolic Damage of Chronic Stress
You might think stress just makes you irritable or tired. But Dr. Radu Kramer of Comprehensive Healing MD wants you to know it goes much deeper—chronic stress can silently sabotage your entire metabolism.
"Stress releases [adrenaline and cortisol] instantly," explains Dr. Kramer. "All of a sudden your heart rate goes up—and blood sugar follows."
When you're under pressure, your body enters fight-or-flight mode. This triggers the adrenal glands to release hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones raise blood sugar levels to give you quick energy. But when stress is constant, this process becomes damaging.
Stress Isn’t Just in Your Head—It Hits Your Hormones
Cortisol is helpful in short bursts. But over time, elevated cortisol can:
Increase abdominal fat
Raise blood sugar levels
Disrupt sleep patterns
Suppress immune function
Slow down thyroid function
That means even if you’re eating well, stress can make it nearly impossible to lose weight, regulate sugar, or feel energized.
Pain Points Linked to Chronic Stress:
Feeling "wired but tired"
Trouble falling or staying asleep
Unexplained weight gain, especially around the midsection
Sugar cravings and energy crashes
Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability
These are often dismissed or blamed on aging—but they’re strong clues that your stress response is overactive.
The Vicious Cycle of Stress and Sugar
Every time you're triggered—whether it’s traffic, work drama, or scrolling social media—your brain sends signals to the adrenal glands. This dumps cortisol into your system, causing a blood sugar spike. That spike is followed by a crash, which creates cravings, fatigue, and more stress. And the cycle continues.
"You didn’t need [those hormones] two minutes earlier," Dr. Kramer points out. "But one stressful moment changes your entire body’s chemistry."
Breaking the Cycle
The good news? You can reset your system with consistent, simple changes:
Prioritize restorative sleep
Incorporate enjoyable physical activities regularly
Fuel your body with unprocessed whole foods
It's Time to Take Stress Seriously
Stress isn’t just a mental health issue—it’s a full-body disruptor. When left unmanaged, it can fast-track insulin resistance, weight gain, and chronic disease.
Don’t wait until you burn out. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Radu Kramer. Take control of your metabolism, energy, and long-term health.
Dr. Radu Kramer
201-967-0800
800 Kinderkamack Rd, Suite 205N,
Oradell, NJ 07649