Table 1.

Strategies that activate mitohormesis, which is optimally activated by a balanced oscillation between mitochondrial stressor and recovery phases

Lifestyle factors	Stressor phase	Recovery phase
Industrial toxins	Exposure Transient, low-dose exposures to heavy metals, air pollutants, pesticides, and chemicals	Non-exposure Prolonged, near-zero dose exposures to heavy metals, air pollutants, pesticides, and chemicals
Dietary lifestyle	Feeding Evolutionary hunter-gatherer diets (minimally processed, carbohydrate-restricted)	Fasting Fasting protocols (particularly intermittent fasting, coffee permitted)
Cognitive behaviours	Cognitive stimulation Cognitive training, activities that demand sustained attention and promote engagement	Sleep Adequate sleep opportunity in a dedicated environment, sleep hygiene measures
Physical behaviours	Exercise Relatively intensive, strength-based exercise sessions	Deep rest Contemplative practices (such as breathwork, mindfulness, and meditation), prioritizing sufficient rest and recovery from exercise and psychosocial engagement
Psychosocial behaviours	Psychosocial engagement Social activities, networks, supports, and relationships