Influenced to Death
Episode #18: The surprising benefits of stress with Dr. Sharon Bergquist
Jan 7, 2025
Dr. Sharon Bergquist, a scientist and medical doctor known for her research on stress and author of "The Stress Paradox," dives into the surprising benefits of stress. She reveals how moderate stress can make you biologically younger and why it might be unwise to lower it completely. The discussion explores the concept of hormesis, emphasizing how small stressors promote resilience. They also tackle misconceptions about diets and stress responses, suggesting that understanding stress can lead to better health outcomes.
01:03:47
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Quick takeaways
- Moderate stress can slow biological aging, offering a counterintuitive benefit contrary to the common perception of stress as harmful.
- The concept of hormesis illustrates that brief, controlled stressors can enhance resilience and lead to improved health and longevity.
Deep dives
The Relationship Between Stress and Biological Aging
Research indicates that psychological stress can impact biological aging, with moderate stress potentially slowing aging compared to low-stress individuals. The findings suggest that there may be a complex relationship between stress levels and biological resilience, highlighting the role of individual resilience in how stress affects aging. Surprisingly, those who experience a certain level of stress can have a slower biological age, which counters the common belief that stress is universally detrimental. Understanding the nuanced effects of stress can lead to better approaches in managing both stress and health outcomes.
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