1116 - Oxytocin’s Influence on Immune Function, Pain Modulation & Metabolism

1116 - Oxytocin’s Influence on Immune Function, Pain Modulation & Metabolism

July 3, 2026 · 57 min · Episode 1115

About this episode

This episode explores the multifaceted role of oxytocin in immune function, pain modulation, and metabolism, emphasizing its impact on social relationships and stress management.

00:00 Introduction to Oxytocin's Role 00:11 When Relationships Feel Unsafe 01:06 Oxytocin's Impact on Physiology 02:00 The 'Tend and Defend' Hormone 03:00 Oxytocin and Social Threats 04:03 Vagus Nerve and Social Engagement 04:44 Threat Perception and Context 06:00 Oxytocin and Pain Perception 06:36 Co-Regulation and Safety 07:42 Oxytocin in Trauma and Hypervigilance 08:48 Oxytocin and the HPA Axis 09:36 Cumulative Stress and Attachment Injuries 11:13 Stress, Sleep, and Immune Connection 11:48 Inflammation, Health, and Social Isolation 13:44 Oxytocin, Pain, and Interpersonal Stress 15:18 Hormones, Reproduction, and Oxytocin 16:35 Hormonal Cycles, PCOS, and Adolescents 18:00 Cycle Variations, Stress, and Aging 19:47 Oxytocin and Metabolism 21:01 Oxytocin, Eating, and Impulse Control 21:35 Learning, Memory, and Social Conditioning 24:14 Therapy and Rebuilding Safety 25:13 Mindful Awareness and Connection 26:31 Exploring Safety in Relationships 28:00 Building Safety Internally and with Others 30:01 Skills for Managing Relational Threats 32:05 Secure Attachment and Self-Relationship 34:03 CARE(S) for Secure Attachment 36:05 Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation 39:07 Nurturing…

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Host: Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes

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