32. The One That Sets The Record Straight On Cortisol

truggling with fatigue, belly weight, or burnout, and wondering if cortisol is to blame?

In this episode of The Fatigue Fixer, Dr. Sarah sets the record straight on cortisol—one of the most misunderstood hormones in the wellness world. You’ll learn what cortisol actually does, why it’s not the enemy, and what really impacts your body’s stress response. From coffee and cardio myths to the truth about “cortisol belly,” this episode clears up the confusion, and helps you focus on what matters most for your energy and health.

Key Takeaways:

• Cortisol isn’t trying to sabotage you—it’s trying to save you.
  It plays a vital role in keeping you safe and balanced during stress.
• Your stress response has a rhythm.
  Cortisol spikes naturally in the morning and tapers off through the day—that’s normal and healthy.
• The “adrenal fatigue” narrative? Not science-based.
  Real cortisol-related conditions (like Cushing’s or Addison’s) are rare and diagnosed by a doctor.
• Four big factors impact cortisol levels:
  1. Your perception of stress (N.U.T.S. framework: Novelty, Unpredictability, Threat, Sense of control)
  2. Light exposure and circadian rhythm
  3. Blood sugar stability
  4. Inflammation

Coffee and cardio are not your cortisol enemies.
Regular coffee drinkers and exercisers don’t need to worry—these habits can support healthy hormone balance.

Cortisol testing?
Not necessary unless symptoms suggest a rare condition. Saliva tests throughout the day are best for pattern tracking—blood tests are less helpful.

Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.

The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.