The Dr. Hyman Show

Tired But Wired? The Hidden Loop Destroying Your Energy | Dr. Scott Sherr, MD

16 snips
Apr 15, 2026
Guest
Scott Sherr
Dr. Scott Sherr, a physician focused on mitochondrial health and nervous system regulation, lays out the 'sympathetic spiral of doom' that leaves people feeling tired but wired. He explores how chronic stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, medications and toxins trap energy and recovery. Practical approaches include rebuilding mitochondrial capacity, targeted testing, and strategic interventions like low‑dose methylene blue and calming supports.
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INSIGHT

Why You Feel Tired But Wired

  • Mitochondrial stress forces cells into a glycolytic, low-energy state that drives sympathetic overcompensation and the 'tired but wired' feeling.
  • Symptoms include poor recovery, reliance on stimulants, mood swings, and prolonged post-stressor recovery.
INSIGHT

Cell Danger Response Links Stress To Low Energy

  • Chronic cortisol, norepinephrine and adrenaline signal mitochondria that the body is under persistent threat, triggering the cell danger response (CDR).
  • The CDR protects cells by reducing energy production but becomes maladaptive if it doesn't turn off.
INSIGHT

Medications And Toxins Harm Mitochondria

  • Common medications and environmental toxins commonly impair mitochondrial complexes, especially complex I and II, worsening energy production.
  • Examples include metformin, statins, proton pump inhibitors, pesticides and heavy metals.
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