Study on the effect of fasting on stress, ageing & metabolism

Martin P. Wegman et al.

April 2015

Intermittent fasting

Metabolism / Stomach / Intestines

Stress / Exhaustion

The University of Florida initiated a double-blind crossover study to investigate the effect of intermittent fasting (IF) on oxidative stress, aging and metabolism.

Since strict calorie restriction cannot be maintained for an extended period of time, the study used a modified approach of fasting (25% of normal calorie intake) and feasting (175% of normal calorie intake). The sample of 24 healthy volunteers underwent two three-week treatments, first IF and then the same with antioxidant supplementation (vitamins C and E).

Sirtuin levels increased marginally, plasma insulin levels decreased, but other markers of oxidative stress, ageing and metabolism did not change. The sample described the dietary requirements as tolerable and no adverse clinical findings were observed. The study thus suggests that IF is acceptable for healthy patients.

The most important information on the study at a glance

Indications: Stress
Institution: University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
Title: Study on the effect of intermittent fasting on oxidative stress, ageing processes and metabolism
Brief description: The study shows that intermittent fasting lowers plasma insulin, slightly increases sirtuins and is well tolerated by healthy people.
Original title: Practicality of Intermittent Fasting in Humans and its Effect on Oxidative Stress and Genes Related to Aging and Metabolism
Link to the study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4403246/