Fasting is the practice of voluntarily abstaining from some or all food and drinks for a period of time, typically ranging from a few hours to several days. One of the proposed benefits of fasting is its ability to induce autophagy, a cellular process that involves the degradation and recycling of damaged or dysfunctional cellular components.
There is some scientific evidence to suggest that fasting can promote autophagy and may, therefore, have potential benefits for longevity. For example, a study published in the journal Cell Metabolism in 2016 found that fasting in mice led to an increase in #autophagy and a decrease in markers of aging, including inflammation and oxidative stress. The study also found that the benefits of fasting on lifespan were dependent on the presence of autophagy.
Other studies have also suggested a link between fasting and autophagy in humans
For example, a study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine in 2017 found that intermittent fasting led to an increase in autophagy markers in human participants. The study also found that the participants experienced improvements in several health markers, including blood pressure and insulin sensitivity.
However, it's worth noting that the research on fasting and autophagy is still relatively new, and more studies are needed to fully understand the relationship between the two.
Additionally, the optimal duration and frequency of fasting required to induce autophagy and promote longevity are still unclear.
Overall, while the scientific evidence on fasting and autophagy is promising, it's important to approach fasting with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as fasting can have risks and side effects, particularly for certain populations such as pregnant women, people with diabetes, and those with a history of disordered eating