Stress: A Double-Edged Sword for Longevity
The Benefits of Good Stress (Eustress)
Eustress is a short-term, beneficial form of stress that sharpens focus, boosts motivation, and enhances brain function. It triggers the release of cortisol and epinephrine (adrenaline), improving memory, immune response, and neuroplasticity. Examples of eustress include:
✔ Preparing for an interview or presentation
✔ Engaging in exercise
✔ Learning something new
✔ Planning an exciting trip
Another positive stressor, hormesis, involves brief, intense stressors that stimulate cellular repair and adaptation. Activities that induce hormesis include:
✔ Intermittent fasting & fast-mimicking diets
✔ Cold plunges & sauna therapy
✔ High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
✔ Intermittent hypoxia (controlled oxygen restriction)
✔ Phytonutrient-rich foods (e.g., glucosinolates in broccoli sprouts)
Hormesis activates processes like autophagy (removal of damaged cells), DNA repair, mitochondrial optimization, and inflammation reduction, strengthening the body’s ability to fight diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, depression, and neurodegeneration.
When Stress Becomes Harmful
Chronic stress, however, is damaging. Long-term activation of the fight-or-flight response leads to inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and increased risk of chronic diseases, including:
❌ Metabolic disorders
❌ Cardiovascular disease
❌ Dementia
❌ Anxiety & depression
Signs of Chronic Stress
– Irritability & fatigue
– Difficulty concentrating
– Insomnia & disrupted sleep
– Digestive issues & appetite changes
– Low motivation & feelings of helplessness
– Weakened immune function
