Study on the effect of fasting on the immune system and gut

Time-restricted eating has been shown to extend lifespan in animal models, but its effects on the human immune system, particularly on immunosenescence, metabolism and the gut microbiome, continue to be studied. This 30-day, single-arm clinical trial led by Yiran Chen included 49 participants who followed a 16:8 eating window (meals between 9am and 5pm). The study monitored weight, immune changes, serum metabolites and the gut microbiome.

95.9% of participants experienced sustained weight loss. There was a reduction in senescent CD4+ T cells, while beneficial immune cells such as Th1, Treg, Tfh-like cells and B cells increased. T cell receptor chains increased while B cell receptor chains decreased. Anti-inflammatory bacteria such as Akkermansia and Rikenellaceae increased, contributing to a"younger" composition of the gut microbiome . Anti-aging metabolites such as sphingosine-1-phosphate and prostaglandin-1 were upregulated, indicating reduced inflammation.

Time-restricted eating offers several anti-aging effects by improving immune function, metabolism and gut health, potentially helping to keep the body "young".