Welcome to part 1 of the ODX Stress Biomarkers Series. In this series, the ODX Research team explores the causes, characteristics, and biomarkers of stress, as well as how to cope with it optimally. From sources to physiology to biomarkers, this series provides a roadmap into and out of stress.
Stress is ubiquitous. How we respond to it and cope with it depends on our resiliency as well as our perception of that stress. The stress response allows us to adapt to our environment, in some cases challenging or “fighting” a potential adversary, and in some cases wisely fleeing that adversary or negative stressor (“flight”).
However, frequent or chronic stress can lead to impaired adaptation and increased risk of systemic inflammation; immune dysfunction; premature aging; cognitive decline; metabolic disorders including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease; and even psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.[i]
Prolonged stress can significantly disrupt psycho-neuro-immune balance, resulting in commonly recognized psychological and physiological symptoms. Biomarkers associated with stress reflect the major systems involved, e.g., the autonomic nervous system (alpha-amylase, epinephrine, norepinephrine), HPA axis activity (cortisol, CRH, ACTH), and immune system activity (inflammatory cytokines, CRP).[ii]
Identifying potential stressors, monitoring physiological and psychological changes, and intervening with stress management techniques are crucial steps to addressing stress in a healthy and effective manner.
Stress is a broad term referring to a stimulus or event that disturbs homeostasis and generates a response in the stressed individual. Stress may be considered “eustress,” meaning it can have a positive, motivating effect. However, we often we think of stress as distress, which can have negative emotional and physical effects, especially if prolonged.
The negative consequences of stress are related to a “crisis mode” emotional and physiological response. This response allows an organism to mobilize resources and either fight the stressor (or aggressor) or take flight in the classic “fight or flight” response.[iii] Basically, the stress response puts us into survival mode.
There are biochemical and physiological changes that can be identified and addressed in order to modify the effects of prolonged stress on the body. Fortunately, there are also a number of interventions that can reduce the negative effects of stress. These include active stress management, healthy diet and lifestyle habits, and targeted nutrition support.
[i] Frankiensztajn, Linoy Mia et al. “The microbiota and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis, implications for anxiety and stress disorders.” Current opinion in neurobiology vol. 62 (2020): 76-82. doi:10.1016/j.conb.2019.12.003
[ii] Nater, Urs M et al. “Biomarkers of stress in behavioural medicine.” Current opinion in psychiatry vol. 26,5 (2013): 440-5. doi:10.1097/YCO.0b013e328363b4ed
[iii] Singh, K. "Nutrient and stress management." J Nutr Food Sci 6.4 (2016): 528.