Hormesis, Phytochemicals, and Cardiometabolic Stress Adaptation
Natalia M Kassin Natalia M Kassin

Hormesis, Phytochemicals, and Cardiometabolic Stress Adaptation

Dietary phytochemicals exert biological effects primarily through modulation of endogenous stress-response pathways rather than direct antioxidant scavenging in vivo. These compounds activate conserved cellular defense systems including Nrf2-mediated transcription, AMPK signaling, and endothelial nitric oxide synthesis, influencing redox balance, mitochondrial efficiency, and inflammatory tone.

In contrast to chronic metabolic stressors — such as sustained elevations in ApoB-containing lipoproteins or persistent hyperinsulinemia — phytochemical exposure represents a transient hormetic stimulus. This distinction is critical in longevity science, as chronic metabolic load drives endothelial dysfunction and plaque progression, whereas adaptive signaling enhances resilience.

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Mental benefits
Natalia M Kassin Natalia M Kassin

Mental benefits

People’s motivation to eat healthy food is weakened by the fact that physical health benefits are not always felt immediately, but well-being improvements from increased consumption of fruit and vegetables are closer to immediate.

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