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The Metabolism, Muscles, and Mindset PodcastAuthor: Ali Novitsky, MD
Welcome to "The Muscles & Mindset Podcast", with your host Dr. Ali Novitsky, an acclaimed obesity medicine expert, renowned for her unique expertise in muscle optimization through exercise, nutrition, and mindset work. Her revolutionary approach to health and wellness. Dr. Novitsky is not just an expert; she is a catalyst, propelling individuals on their journey of transformation, fostering strength, endurance, and resilience, and reshaping the landscape of obesity medicine. The Muscles & Mindset Podcast aims to foster not just knowledge, but action. We'll unravel the secrets to optimizing muscle development, adhering to a nourishing diet, and cultivating a resilient mindset - three crucial pillars of a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. But more than that, we'll provide you with actionable strategies, practical tips, and effective tools that you can seamlessly incorporate into your daily routines. This podcast isn't just about understanding the muscles and mindset, it's about turning that understanding into positive, transformative action. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement, as you tune in to the Muscles & Mindset Podcast. Together, we'll navigate the path of health and wellness, one episode at a time. Dr. Ali Novitsky's work can be found at https://thefitcollective.com. Language: en-us Genres: Health & Fitness Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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262: Stress-Induced Hunger: Tools and Insights
Episode 1
Wednesday, 7 May, 2025
Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Ali Novitsky — expert in obesity medicine — explores the powerful link between stress and hunger. While many recognize stress affects eating, Dr. Novitsky explains the underlying science, behavioral patterns, and offers tools to manage stress-driven eating with compassion.Understanding Stress ResponsesDr. Novitsky explains that responses to stress vary widely. Some lose their appetite during stress, while others overeat. This depends on physiology, past experiences, and genetics. It’s not about willpower; it’s about biology and behavior.The Role of HormonesAdrenaline (acute stress): Suppresses hunger during “fight or flight” by slowing digestion.Cortisol (chronic stress): Increases appetite and cravings, especially for sugar and fat.Ghrelin: The “hunger hormone,” rises with stress, intensifying hunger cues.Leptin: The “fullness hormone,” can be blunted by chronic stress, leading to overeating.Acute vs. Chronic StressShort-term stress may shut down appetite. Chronic stress, however, causes lasting hormonal shifts that increase hunger, slow metabolism, and may cause leptin resistance. Dr. Novitsky explains how chronic stress and dieting can disrupt satiety signals and lead to weight challenge — even in those with a “normal” BMI.Behavioral & Genetic ComponentsCoping with food often starts in childhood. Learned behaviors and genetic predispositions influence whether one turns to food under stress. Dr. Novitsky shares her personal experience using food for emotional comfort, highlighting the importance of empathy over shame.Tools to Navigate Stress EatingSomatic Stress Scale (1–10) from DBT helps identify rising stress before acting on it.Mindful Pauses: Ask, “Am I hungry or triggered?”Compassionate Self-Talk: Replace guilt with curiosity.Nourishing Alternatives: Movement, breathwork, journaling, or support.Regulate First: Focus on emotional regulation before dietary restriction.Key InsightManaging stress is a foundation for managing hunger. When we understand our body’s signals and respond with awareness and kindness, we create sustainable habits. Dr. Novitsky reminds us we’re human, not broken—and we’re in this together.Final ThoughtThere’s no shame in stress eating. With knowledge, tools, and compassion, we can make empowered, healthier choices. Dr. Novitsky signs off with gratitude and love.Timestamps00:00:22 - Overview of Stress and Hunger00:00:52 - Individual Responses to Stress00:01:25 - Genetics and Stress Response00:01:46 - Acute vs. Chronic Stress00:02:06 - Hormones Involved in Stress Response00:02:28 - Adrenaline and Acute Stress00:03:43 - Cortisol and Chronic Stress00:05:00 - Insulin and Blood Sugar00:05:20 - Ghrelin and Hunger00:06:13 - Weight Loss and Stress00:06:47 - Leptin and Satiety00:07:30 - Leptin Resistance Explained00:08:02 - Normal Weight Obesity00:09:05 - Critique of BMI00:10:12 - Leptin Resistance and Metabolic Rate00:11:22 - Chronic Dieting and Leptin Resistance00:12:01 - Summary of Hormones and Stress00:13:43 - Genetic Component of Emotional Eating00:18:09 - Empathy and Emotional Eating00:21:09 - Identifying Patterns of Stress Eating00:24:08 - Recognizing Stress Levels00:25:01 - Stress Scale and Emotional Regulation00:27:07 - Chronic Stress and Hunger00:29:04 - Positive Stress and Dysregulation00:30:09 - Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Dr. Ali Novitsky on SocialsTikTokFacebookInstagramYouTubeWork with Dr. Ali• Beginner Strength Training Program – 12 months for only $199! Enroll TODAY• Total Fitness Program – A 12-month mind-body experience. Enroll HERE• The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – Get 15% off select models. Click HERE
