What is the relationship between intermittent fasting and increased lifespan?

From the Guidelines

Intermittent fasting has been shown to potentially extend lifespan, with the most recent and highest quality study 1 suggesting that it can improve metabolic parameters and reduce risk factors for aging-related diseases. The relationship between intermittent fasting and increased lifespan is complex, and while the evidence in humans remains preliminary, the most promising approaches include time-restricted eating and the 5:2 method. For best results, it is recommended to maintain consistent fasting schedules, stay hydrated during fasting periods, and focus on nutrient-dense foods during eating windows. Intermittent fasting appears to work through several mechanisms, including reducing oxidative stress, promoting cellular repair processes called autophagy, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing inflammation—all factors associated with aging and age-related diseases. The metabolic switch from glucose to ketone utilization during fasting periods may be particularly beneficial for brain health and longevity. Some key points to consider when implementing intermittent fasting include:

• Reducing total caloric intake in the long term
• Improving cardiometabolic parameters and reducing atherosclerosis and diastolic dysfunction
• Potential benefits for lipid profile, including reduced total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol concentrations
• Possible reduction in fasting blood glucose levels
• Association with lower prevalence and incidence of diabetes
• Contribution to weight loss and maintaining a healthy body weight While generally safe for healthy adults, those with medical conditions, pregnant women, and those with a history of eating disorders should consult healthcare providers before starting intermittent fasting regimens, as noted in the study 1. It is essential to follow personalized guidance on proper meal planning and to examine the quality and quantity of foods consumed during fasting and non-fasting periods, as highlighted in the study 1. Further investigation is needed to assess the impact of intermittent fasting on nutritional status and chronic diseases, particularly in diverse ethnic populations.

From the Research

Relationship Between Intermittent Fasting and Increased Lifespan

• The relationship between intermittent fasting and increased lifespan has been studied in various research papers, with findings suggesting that intermittent fasting may have a positive impact on longevity 2, 3, 4.
• Intermittent fasting has been shown to affect cellular aging and disease risk factors, leading to improved healthspan and potentially increased lifespan 2.
• Studies have demonstrated that intermittent fasting can improve physiological function, enhance performance, and slow aging and disease processes, which may contribute to increased lifespan 3, 4.
• The beneficial effects of intermittent fasting on metabolism, endocrine and cardiovascular systems, cancer prevention, brain health, neurodegeneration, and aging may also play a role in increasing lifespan 3, 4, 5.

Mechanisms Underlying the Relationship

• The mechanisms underlying the relationship between intermittent fasting and increased lifespan are thought to involve optimization of energy utilization, activation of adaptive cellular stress response signaling pathways, and enhancement of mitochondrial health, DNA repair, and autophagy 3, 4.
• Intermittent fasting has also been shown to promote stem cell-based regeneration and long-lasting metabolic effects, which may contribute to increased lifespan 4.
• The reduction in proliferation markers such as IGF-1, which can act as an accelerator of tumor development and progression, may also be an indicator of the potential benefits of intermittent fasting for increasing lifespan 6.

Evidence from Human Studies

• Human studies have demonstrated that intermittent fasting can improve quality of life, reduce fatigue, and improve various health indicators, including insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease risk factors 5, 6.
• A prospective clinical trial found that intermittent fasting significantly improved quality of life and decreased fatigue in healthy volunteers, while maintaining a good safety profile 6.
• Further research is needed to establish the long-term effectiveness of intermittent fasting for weight loss and metabolic health, as well as its potential benefits for increasing lifespan 3, 5.