We are all bombarded by stress throughout our daily lives, and it comes in many different forms. But how do we actually know what impact that stress is having on our bodies? One of the key messages from today’s conversation is a reminder of how unique we all are.

My guest on this week’s episode is nutritionist and researcher, Alessandro Ferretti, who has spent years researching the effects of various stressors on the body by meticulously monitoring the heart rate variability (HRV) and blood sugar levels of both his clients and himself. He shares the fascinating findings of his research and explains that what causes stress on our bodies can be different for different individuals – one man’s medicine really can be another man’s poison – and the way we perceive an event is key.

We also discuss the effect of shift work on our bodies, how type 2 diabetes is not just a dietary problem, how the wrong timing of meals can act as a significant stressor on the body, and the impact of caffeine and insufficient sleep. Finally, he gives some brilliant tips for optimising your health. This is a really informative conversation – I hope you enjoy it!

Articles:

• The New York Times – When We Eat, or Don’t Eat, May Be Critical for Health
• Fast Company.com – Do these things to avoid burnout from taking over your life
• Harvard Medical School – Heart rate variability: A new way to track well-being

Suggested Apps:

• HRV 4 Training (iPhone and Android compatible)
• Elite HRV (iPhone and Android compatible, requires external HR monitor)