Episode 17: Burned Out? It’s Not Just Stress — The Truth About Adrenal Fatigue & Cortisol

n this episode of the Aligned Wellness Podcast, Dr. Torrie Thompson breaks down the truth about adrenal burnout, what’s really going on with your stress response system, and why your symptoms won’t resolve with just another adrenal supplement.

👉 What you’ll learn in this episode:
🔥 What the HPA axis is and how it controls cortisol, DHEA, and other stress hormones
⚠️ Why your body stays in “fight or flight” — even when you're not in danger
🔄 The difference between high and low cortisol patterns (and what symptoms go with each)
💥 How chronic stress, trauma, toxins, gut infections, and overtraining dysregulate your adrenals
🚫 Why “adrenal fatigue” isn’t a real diagnosis (and what you actually need to test for)
🥵 The dangers of overtraining, fasting, or going keto with burned-out adrenals
🧪 What a proper cortisol rhythm test looks like (hint: not a one-time blood draw)
🛠️ How to actually heal your adrenals through nutrition, minerals, nervous system work, and daily rhythms
🌿 The best supplements for adrenal support (adaptogens, electrolytes, B vitamins, and more)
🕒 Why regulating your circadian rhythm and blood sugar is essential to adrenal recovery

💥 This episode is packed with practical steps and deep insights into how to finally balance your energy, mood, hormones, and stress levels — from the inside out.

📊 Recommended testing: DUTCH Test, Toxin Panels, Gut Testing
🍽️ Key healing strategies: Protein-rich breakfasts, gentle exercise, breathwork, and minerals