#264: Prof. Michael Ristow – Longevity, Mitochondria & Free Radicals

#264: Prof. Michael Ristow – Longevity, Mitochondria & Free Radicals

Author: Danny Lennon January 22, 2019 Duration: 44:38
  • Role of mitochondria in lifespan regulation and prevention of metabolic diseases
  • Health-promoting effects associated with: low caloric intake, reduced glucose metabolism, physical exercise, sirtuin signaling & more
  • How Prof. Ristow's findings go against the popular "free radical theory of aging"
  • How increased formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within mitochondria can increase longevity
  • ROS causing a vaccination-like adaptive response that culminates in increased stress resistance and extended longevity
  • Mitochondrial hormesis or mitohormesis
  • Human vs. non-human trials
  • How do insulin, protein and resveratrol affect longevity?
  • NAD
  • Caloric restriction vs maintenance of lean physique for longevity

Head of Institute of Translational Medicine at ETH Zurich and heads up the Energy Metabolism Laboratory. Prof. Ristow has been involved in research for many years examing Biochemistry and Physiology of Aging, Exercise, Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes.

Prof. Ristow's group are interested in the biochemical and molecular basis of longevity — in particular the role played by mitochondria in lifespan regulation and prevention of metabolic diseases. Contrary to the widely re-iterated 'Free Radical Theory of Aging', his group have been the first laboratory to show that the health-promoting effects associated with low caloric intake, physical exercise and other lifespan-extending interventions like sirtuin signaling are caused by increased formation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) within the mitochondria, causing a vaccination-like adaptive response that culminates in increased stress resistance and extended longevity, a process called mitohormesis.


Sigma Nutrition Radio, hosted by nutrition scientist Danny Lennon, moves beyond the noise of diet trends and simplistic advice to explore the complex, fascinating world of human nutrition. This is a space for deep, evidence-based conversations that acknowledge the nuance and often contradictory nature of scientific research. Each episode delves into a specific topic within health, fitness, or dietetics, breaking down the underlying physiology, examining the latest studies, and discussing practical implications with expert guests. The goal isn't to hand out rigid meal plans but to cultivate the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the ever-changing landscape of nutritional science. You'll hear detailed analyses of how research is conducted, thoughtful debates on contentious issues, and explorations of how evidence translates-or doesn't-into real-world recommendations for different individuals. Tuning into this podcast means committing to a more sophisticated understanding of how food, movement, and metabolism interact, leaving you better equipped to make informed decisions about your own health and skepticism towards the next big headline. Danny’s approach is both rigorous and accessible, making even the most detailed biochemical pathways relevant to everyday life. It’s for anyone who has ever wondered about the real story behind a nutrition claim and values substance over soundbites.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 620

Sigma Nutrition Radio
Podcast Episodes
#600: Finite Knowledge, Infinite Ignorance [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:00:12
"The more we learn about the world, and the deeper our learning, the more conscious, specific, and articulate will be our knowledge of what we do not know, our knowledge of our ignorance. For this, indeed, is the main so…
#596: Why Do Omega-3 Trials Show Mixed Results? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:11
Omega-3 fatty acids (particularly EPA and DHA) have a long history in nutrition and cardiovascular medicine, yet the clinical trial literature is often perceived as inconsistent. This episode examines why some randomized…
How Much Dietary Fiber Do We Need to be Healthy? (SNP48) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:45
This is a Premium-exclusive episode of the podcast. To listen to the full episode you need to be subscribed to Sigma Nutrition Premium. This episode examines dietary fiber through the lens of a practical, clinically rele…