Intermittent Fasting: Is the Wait Worth the Weight?

ABSTRACT: PURPOSE OF REVIEW:We review the underlying mechanisms and potential benefits of intermittent fasting (IF) from animal models and recent clinical trials. RECENT FINDINGS:Numerous variations of IF exist, and study protocols vary greatly in their interpretations of this weight loss trend. Most human IF studies result in minimal weight loss and marginal improvements in metabolic biomarkers, though outcomes vary. Some animal models have found that IF reduces oxidative stress, improves cognition, and delays aging. Additionally, IF has anti-inflammatory effects, promotes autophagy, and benefits the gut microbiome. The benefit-to-harm ratio varies by model, IF protocol, age at initiation, and duration. We provide an integrated perspective on potential benefits of IF as well as key areas for future

SUBMITTER: Stockman MC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5959807 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature