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December 23, 2024
Birgitta Dunckel
Various factors can increase the chance of a long and healthy life. Fasting can also have a positive effect on the aging process.
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On the topic of longevity, known in German as “Langlebigkeit,” countless research teams worldwide are engaged. There is consensus that diet is also a crucial key to extending the health span. However, more and more studies suggest that not only what is on the plate is decisive for living longer, but also when it is served and in what quantity..
Scientists have already been able to demonstrate in past animal experiments that reduced calorie intake has a positive effect on life expectancy. A recent study from 2023 shows that calorie reduction also affects the aging process of humans: The research team led by Dr. Daniel Belsky from Columbia University New York investigated the interaction of calorie reduction on aging .
A group of 75 people ate normally, while 145 other people reduced their daily calorie intake by 25 percent - with sufficient nutrient supply. After two years, the speed of the aging process, measured by biomarkers in the blood, had slowed by two to three percent in the 145 participants.
In addition to calorie restriction, there is a second fasting principle: time restriction. The best-known and most popular method is intermittent fasting – for example, the 16/8 pattern: 8 hours during the day you can eat, 16 hours – especially in the evening and at night – you fast.
It is scientifically proven that after 12 hours of fasting, autophagy occurs, during which harmful old cell components are broken down and cell renewal is stimulated. A crucial point for longevity. Furthermore, studies on mice show that fasting brings additional crucial benefits for health and longevity:
• Improvement of metabolic health: Insulin sensitivity is increased and the blood sugar level stabilizes. The risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases is reduced.• Increased stress resistance: Fasting has been shown to induce hormesis , leading to increased stress resistance and potential lifespan extension.
• Reduced inflammation: Chronic inflammation are considered an important factor in the development of many age-related diseases. Intermittent fasting is associated with a reduction in inflammatory markers.• Anti-aging for the brain: Age-related brain changes are delayed, and coordination, memory, and learning abilities increase.
However, the body of research for humans is not yet clear, and the long-term effects of intermittent fasting have not been fully clarified. Doctors advise that fasting be tailored individually and under the guidance of a physician. It is generally not suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in cases of eating disorders, and underweight.
Oliver Lüder
