Authors: Francine Z. Marques, M. Andrea Markus, Brian J. Morris
Published in: Dose-Response
DOI: https://doi.org/10.2203/dose-response.09-021.Morris
Objective:
To explore whether small amounts of healthy stress (called hormesis)—like exercise, calorie restriction, or heat—can help humans age better and live longer.
Key Findings:
· What Is Hormesis?
o Hormesis means getting stronger by exposing the body to low doses of stress (like heat, exercise, or fasting). Too much would be harmful, but a little might help.
· Evidence in Animals and Cells:
o Mild stress helps animals and human cells fight aging by activating repair and protection systems.
o Repeated mild heat stress increased healing and blood flow in human cells.
o Calorie restriction and resveratrol (found in red wine and grapes) activate protective genes (like sirtuins) that support longer, healthier lives.
· Exercise and Diet:
o Moderate exercise reduces inflammation and supports heart, brain, and metabolic health—even when started later in life.
o Certain plant compounds (xenohormetics) like resveratrol mimic the effects of calorie restriction.
· Caution Needed:
o More isn’t always better—too much stress can be harmful (e.g., overexercising).
o The right “dose” of stress likely depends on a person’s genetics and environment.
o Taking antioxidants (like vitamin C and E) may cancel out the benefits of exercise-induced stress.
Conclusion:
· Hormesis could help people stay healthier as they age, but more studies in humans are needed.
· Exercise, healthy eating, and weight management are proven ways to reduce aging-related disease.
· Scientists should be careful not to assume all small stressors are good or safe. We need more research before changing public health rules.
Disclaimer:
This summary is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making lifestyle or supplement changes.
Hormesis as a Pro-Healthy Aging Intervention in Human Beings? https://doi.org/10.2203/dose-response.09-021.Morris
