MOHIVATE
Hosted by Dr. Mohi Sarawgee, a GP, MOHIvate is your doctor’s dose of heart and science — with just a touch of humour — because health and feeling good shouldn’t feel complicated. Each episode breaks down medicine and everyday science in a simple, thoughtful way, serving as a reminder that real health can still feel human. I hope you enjoy listening, learning, and carrying a little feel-good factor with you. Thank you for tuning in!
Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your own doctor or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health, and never ignore or delay professional medical advice because of something you’ve heard here. The views expressed are my own and do not represent the views of any organizations or institutions I’m affiliated with.
MOHIVATE
13. The Science of Stress: Cortisol | When Survival Becomes a Lifestyle
In this episode of MOHIVATE, Dr Mohi Sarawgee explores cortisol - the hormone behind survival, rhythm, and modern stress.
Cortisol is the body’s alarm system. We unpack what it actually does, how its daily rhythm works, and why disruption of that rhythm often matters more than any single test result.
She explains what cortisol really is, where it’s made, and how it works through the brain–body stress axis. She explores the difference between acute and chronic stress, why rhythm matters more than single test results, and how cortisol interacts with blood sugar, memory, sleep, mood, and other hormones including estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid signalling.
You’ll hear why stress doesn’t always show up as “high cortisol” on a blood test, why cortisol testing can be misleading without context, and how modern life keeps the nervous system in a state of quiet vigilance and where survival slowly becomes a lifestyle..
With clinical insight, warmth, and clarity, this episode brings science back to where it belongs: in the body, not just on a lab report.
References:
1. McEwen BS. Protective and damaging effects of stress mediators.
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199801153380307
2. Russell GM, Lightman SL.The human stress response.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-019-0228-0
3. Adam EK et al.Diurnal cortisol slopes and mental and physical health outcomes.
Psychoneuroendocrinology
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306453017301963
Just a gentle reminder: this episode is for information, education, and inspiration only. It’s not a substitute for your doctor’s advice. For any personal health concerns, always seek guidance from your doctor.