Description: Ever check your blood sugar and see 220—even though you didn't eat anything? That's stress. In this episode, I'm explaining how stress hormones affect your blood sugar and giving you four practical tools to manage stress and improve your control.

What you'll learn:

• How cortisol and stress hormones raise blood sugar (even when you haven't eaten)
• Why stress causes insulin resistance
• Why you can't just bolus your way out of stress highs
• Box breathing: a 60-second tool to lower cortisol immediately
• How to use simple meditation to lower baseline stress (even if you think you "can't meditate")
• How movement breaks reduce stress and improve insulin sensitivity
• The "good enough" mindset that releases perfectionism and chronic stress
• The "How can I?" mindset that shifts you from helplessness to possibility thinking
• One tool to practice every day this week

Resources mentioned:

• Ashlee Livingstone, Our Forte (breathwork coaching):
  • https://www.ashleelivingstone.com/
  • https://www.instagram.com/ashlee.livingstone/
• Free meditation apps: Headspace, Calm, Insight Timer
• Jeff Warren-meditation instructor:
  • https://jeffwarren.org/
  • https://www.instagram.com/_jeffwarren_/?hl=en
• Insulin Inspired Coaching: Instagram @melissaapa_ or insulininspired.com

Disclaimer:This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information shared does not create a professional or pharmacist–patient relationship between you and Dr. Melissa Apa or the Insulin Inspired Podcast.

Although Dr. Apa is a licensed clinical pharmacist, she is not acting as your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your own qualified healthcare professional who understands your specific circumstances before making any changes to your medication, diet, or health management plan.

Any examples, experiences, or stories shared are illustrative only and should not be interpreted as medical guidance or guarantees of similar results. Individual health outcomes depend on a variety of factors, including your unique health status, medical history, and adherence to professional care.