Risks and limits of Stress Ernährung

The concept of 'Stress Nutrition' refers to dietary approaches aimed at reducing oxidative and psychological stress. However, the evidence is mostly mechanistic or observational. Antioxidant-rich foods may lower oxidative stress, but robust human RCTs are lacking. Genetic variants like CYP1A2 affect caffeine metabolism – slow metabolizers may experience prolonged cortisol elevation. Alcohol likely reduces lifespan (Mendelian randomization), but direct stress recovery data are scarce. The main limits lie in overinterpreting small effect sizes: single gene variants (e.g., TCF7L2, APOC3) have modest predictive power. Blood glucose and triglycerides are better assessed via continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) or lab tests. DTC DNA tests are not recommended for children; elevated fasting glucose requires medical evaluation. SIRT1 activation or collagen gene tests for skin aging lack proven benefits. Bottom line: a balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, with moderate caffeine and alcohol is sensible, but personalized gene-based dietary adjustments currently lack sufficient evidence. Beware of marketing claims.