In October 2015, I posted on the ability of intermittent fasting (i.e., the regimen in which food intake is limited within six to eight hours for each 24 hours) to counteract cancer progression. The likely mechanism is the depletion of glucose, which is a primary source of energy for some (but not all) cancer cells.
Intermittent fasting, however, has more benefits. Here is what I have found so far:
- Intermittent fasting allows for a renewal of our immune system. It has been established that fasting promotes the regeneration of hematopoietic stem cells, which are responsible for the production of our immune cells.
- Reduced calorie intake decreases metabolism and attenuates telomere erosion; both effects may protect cells from DNA damage and therefore, from aging and cancer. I have previously written on the connection between telomere length and cancer risk. It remains to be seen, however, whether intermittent fasting without calorie restriction has the same benefits.
- Fasting counteracts inflammation, because it contributes to the generation of metabolites such as hydroxybutyrate (a ketone body) and lactic acid. It has been documented that these molecules bind receptors on macrophages, and suppress inflammation.
- Intermittent fasting can reduce acne by suppressing inflammation-associated signaling pathways (some of which are induced by our diet).
The bottom line is that the same way lean spending is good for your net worth, being lean on calorie intake boosts your health.
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