HRV Explained: How Stress Affects Your Brain, Heart & Recovery with Dr. Francisco Cidral

Most people think stress is the problem. In reality, the real issue is your capacity to handle it.

In this episode of the Brain Fitness Podcast, I welcome back our Science Officer, Dr. Francisco Cidral, to discuss one of the most important health markers today: HRV (heart rate variability).

Dr. Cidral is an entrepreneur, professor, and researcher. He holds an ND, a master’s and PhD in Neuroscience, and a post-doctorate in Health Sciences. He specializes in integrative therapies and the neurobiology of pain and inflammation, and currently serves as Science Officer at BrainTap and CEO of the Integrative Health School in Orlando, Florida.

In this conversation, we break down what HRV really measures, why it’s such a powerful indicator of stress resilience, and how chronic stress affects the brain, nervous system, sleep, and long-term health. Dr. Cidral also shares research on how brain entrainment sessions may improve HRV and help activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

If you want to better understand stress, improve recovery, and optimize brain performance, this episode explores the science behind it.

Connect with Dr. Francisco Cidral:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-cidral-nd-phd-83511521b/

Connect with Dr. Patrick Porter:

https://drpatrickporter.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drpatrickporter/

https://www.facebook.com/DrPatrickPorter/

https://www.youtube.com/c/drpatrickporter

Other helpful links & information:

http://www.braintap.pro/

*Our content is for informational purposes only and should not be treated as medical or health advice. Please consult with your doctor / healthcare provider if you have any questions about your medical condition.

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