Research brought out in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition suggests that intermittent fasting might have a positive effect on the immune system’s function and decelerate age-related alterations. Scientists investigated how a schedule involving alternating periods of eating and abstinence impacts the body’s defense mechanisms.
As detailed in the study, significant metabolic shifts occur within the body during fasting. It transitions from deriving energy primarily from glucose to actively burning fat reserves and producing ketone bodies, such as B-hydroxybutyrate. These compounds initiate cellular repair processes, including autophagy—a self-cleansing mechanism where cells dispose of damaged constituents.
The researchers point out that these metabolic adjustments have the potential to lower levels of persistent inflammation, which is considered a primary driver of immune system aging. The observations documented a decrease in pro-inflammatory molecule concentration and a more synchronized function among immune cells.
Special consideration in this paper is given to the potential impact of fasting on the brain. Given that chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are notable contributors to age-related decline in cognitive abilities, switching to a ketogenic state could potentially mitigate neuroinflammation and bolster brain health.
However, the authors emphasize the study’s limitations. A substantial portion of the evidence stems from animal trials, and human clinical studies frequently involved short durations and relatively healthy participant pools focused on short-term impact. Furthermore, the observed benefits of intermittent fasting are largely comparable to outcomes achieved through general, yet moderate, reduction in dietary calories.
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