Episode 316: The Stress Paradox: How Stress Can Enhance Your Health with Dr. Sharon Bergquist

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I chat with Dr. Sharon Bergquist about her fascinating new book, The Stress Paradox: Why You Need Stress to Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier. We unpack why not all stress is bad — and how the right kinds, in the right doses, can actually make us stronger and more resilient. We dive into the biochemistry of stress, the different types of stressors, and how they affect cellular health, metabolic flexibility, and longevity. We also explore the role of exercise, supplements, interval training, and environmental stressors like cold and heat exposure. Dr. Bergquist shares insights on how a varied, phytochemical-rich diet supports health and why building stress capacity is critical for long-term well-being. Sponsors: Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20% LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.com Triphasic 2 book now available! Go to https://triphasic2.com/ Episode Chapters: 00:17 Introducing Dr. Sharon Bergquist and Her New Book 01:22 The Science of Stress and Longevity 01:51 The Role of Supplements and Mitochondrial Health 02:34 Sponsor Messages and Product Recommendations 03:44 Welcoming Dr. Sharon to the Podcast 04:16 Historical Perspective on Stress Research 07:07 The Biochemistry of Stress Responses 09:50 Modern Lifestyle and the Lack of Stressors 15:06 The Importance of Food Variety and Micronutrition 17:47 The Benefits of Phytochemicals and Plant Toxins 37:52 Cold Exposure and Brown Adipose Tissue 42:03 The Metabolic Effects of Cold Water Immersion 44:07 Understanding Shivering Thermogenesis 45:49 Cold Water Immersion and Fat Loss 46:43 Cognitive and Mood Benefits of Cold Exposure 52:25 The Role of Supplements in Health 58:08 The Importance of Exercise 01:00:13 Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Longevity 01:07:53 Mitochondrial Health and Exercise 01:19:11 The Stress Paradox Book Release  Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:  Episode 154: Managing High-Stress Situations and Growing from Trauma: An Interview with Kristina Hoyer  Episode 225: The Intersection of Fitness, Stress, and Nutrition: A Conversation with Expert Jenny the Nutritionist Connect with Dr Bergquist:  Website: https://drsharonbergquist.com/ The Stress Paradox: https://www.amazon.com/Stress-Paradox-Essential-Management-Mind-Body-Soul-ebook/dp/B0CW13NLBZ Get In Touch with Dr Mike: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpg Email: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/ Get the Daily Fitness Insider newsletter (free): https://www.miketnelson.com/newsletter