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Discover why you need stress with Dr. Sharon Bergquist, an award-winning physician and author of The Stress Paradox. In this episode of The Ready State podcast, we explore how stress, often misunderstood as harmful, can actually help you live longer, healthier, and happier. Dr. Bergquist breaks down the science of good stress, including the concept of hormesis and how small, manageable stressors can regenerate your body, boost resilience, and improve mental and physical performance.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• Why “stress-free” living is not the goal — and may actually be a risk factor
• How your daily discomforts build long-term disease resistance
• The 5 good stressors your body needs to thrive (and how to reintroduce them)
• Why eating late at night might be as bad for your sleep as drinking alcohol
• How plant-based foods gently “stress” your cells to make you stronger
• Why the science of hormesis is the future of preventive medicine

Learn why stress is essential for growth, the importance of aligning eating habits with your body’s natural clock, and how even emotional and mental challenges can enhance your capacity to thrive. Packed with actionable tips and real-life examples, this conversation will reshape how you view stress and empower you to embrace it as a tool for better living. Listen now to unlock your full potential!

Key Highlights: 

00:00 - Intro

01:14 - Laird Superfood Benefits

03:18 - Guest Introduction: Dr. Sharon Bergquist

06:28 - Comfort in the Modern World

07:05 - Benefits of Stress

10:22 - Importance of Longitudinal Observation

14:13 - Stress as a Thermostat

16:40 - Utilizing Stress as a Tool

20:47 - The Comfort Conundrum Explained

28:52 - Importance of Hydration

31:37 - Best Protein Sources for Health

33:55 - Key Stressors in Modern Life

34:50 - Phytochemicals: A Positive Stressor

42:00 - Circadian Fasting Benefits

48:48 - Minimum Viable Dose Explained

54:30 - Surprising Research Findings

57:41 - Mental and Emotional Stress Insights

01:05:25 - Key Takeaways on Stress

01:05:56 - Growth Through Discomfort

01:08:13 - Finding Dr. Bergquist Online

01:08:54 - Outro

Sponsors

This episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by Laird Superfood, Momentous, and LMNT.