In this conversation, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney delve into the complexities of burnout, chronic stress, and the role of cortisol in our health. They explore the biological underpinnings of stress, the differences between burnout and chronic fatigue, and the warning signs of high cortisol levels. Vanessa shares practical strategies for managing stress, emphasising the importance of sleep, nutrition, and self-care practices. The discussion highlights the need for awareness and proactive measures to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.   Learn more about the 21 Day Detox Program Vanessa runs each season (winter, spring, summer and autumn) - https://www.thehealthygutprograms.com/   To book a free Discovery Call with Vanessa – https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/   The key takeaways Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, regulated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Chronic stress can lead to HPA axis dysfunction impacting cortisol levels in your body. High cortisol can lead to various health issues. Healthy stress can motivate, while chronic stress can harm health. Warning signs of burnout can be subtle and often ignored. Eating breakfast helps regulate cortisol levels. Creating restorative practices is essential for physical and mental health. Consistency in stress management practices is key to long-term health. Recognising the interplay between all hormones, in particular cortisol and insulin, is crucial for well-being.   Chapters 00:00 - Understanding Cortisol and Chronic Stress 04:44 - Defining Burnout and Chronic Fatigue 07:47 - Healthy Stress vs. Harmful Burnout 11:03 - Recognizing Warning Signs of High Cortisol 16:14 - The Impact of Cortisol on Decision Making 22:22 - Practical Strategies for Stress Regulation   To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com. To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.   Keywords Burnout, cortisol, chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, mental health, wellness, stress management, high performance, health tips, lifestyle changes