Dr. Natalie Azar Recommends 5 Exercise Types to Cut Stress, Not Chase Cortisol
Updated
Updated · TODAY · Aug 21
Dr. Natalie Azar Recommends 5 Exercise Types to Cut Stress, Not Chase Cortisol
1 articles · Updated · TODAY · Aug 21
Summary
Five exercise approaches — mindfulness, breathing, moderate aerobic activity, HIIT, and resistance or endurance training — can measurably reduce stress and cortisol, Dr. Natalie Azar said.
Azar stressed that high cortisol is rarely the cause of common complaints like bloating, acne or poor sleep, and said people with concerning symptoms should see a healthcare provider rather than self-diagnose online.
Cushing’s syndrome — the main condition tied to excess cortisol — is rare, while normal cortisol fluctuations help regulate sleep-wake cycles, blood pressure and glucose use.
Stress management still matters because lower stress is linked to better mental health, improved sleep, less chronic pain and lower blood pressure.