Episode 101: [The LOdown] Blood Sugar & Cortisol Response to Different Types of Workouts

[The LOdown] Blood Sugar & Cortisol Response to Different Types of Workouts

Ever wonder why some workouts leave you energized while others leave you crashing? In this week’s SIH episode, we’re diving into how different types of exercise—like strength training, HIIT, and aerobic cardio—

impact your blood sugar, cortisol levels, and overall recovery. Whether you're working out for body composition, hormone balance, or just better mental wellbeing—understanding your body’s glucose and cortisol response is key for getting the results you want without burnout.

A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇

🔹 Why aerobic exercise improves insulin sensitivity but may lower blood sugar and drive up cortisol in certain situations
🔹 How anaerobic training (like lifting or HIIT) causes a temporary glucose spike—but improves insulin sensitivity after
🔹 The role of cortisol and catecholamines in different types of workouts
🔹 How separating aerobic vs. anaerobic training (like we do in SIH) supports better energy and hormone balance
🔹 When to use carbs pre- or intra-workout to reduce cortisol and support recovery

Important show links 👇👇👇

• Learn more about our Strength in Hormones workout program and join with a 7 day free trial.
• Save 20% on your walking pad at walkingpad.com/functionalfueling
• Follow me on Instagram
• Rate the show! Please give us a 5 star rating in your podcast app