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

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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/