Hippocrates, the father of medicine, often used caloric restriction, or fasting, as his method of healing patients. This quote, packed in wisdom, is attributed to the legendary Greek physician: “To eat when you are sick, is to feed your illness.” It seems that even around 400 BCE this concept was understood.
Fasting has been used as a religious mechanism for millennia to gain mental focus and clarity. Most cultures discovered its anti-inflammatory and healing benefits along the way. In our modern era, it’s only in the past decade that we’ve started unraveling the process of how fasting affects our metabolic and cellular health.
The quest for longevity and health has driven scientific exploration into various avenues, with one of the latest frontiers being the study of senescent cells. These cells, often referred to as “zombie cells,” are a key player in the aging process and age-related diseases. In developed countries, cancer is either the main cause of death or second only to cardiovascular disease. In 2020, an estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases and almost 10 million cancer deaths occurred worldwide. (Trends in Cancer, Vol. 9, Issue 3, March 2023, Pages 212–222).
Senescent cells are cells that have lost their ability to divide and proliferate, yet they remain metabolically active. These cells resist apoptosis (programmed cell death) and as they age, gain size and enlarge their nuclei. The accumulation of these zombie cells contributes to the aging process and the development of age-related diseases. They secrete a range of molecules which can induce chronic inflammation and disrupt the surrounding tissues functionality. This phenomenon has been linked to various conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Fasting or Caloric Restriction (CR) to the rescue. When we stop intaking glucose, the weakest or most sugar dependent cells die first. Fasting also supercharges your immune system, increases hormone production, and boosts the production of healthy stem cells, promoting cellular health and repair.
One of the mechanisms through which fasting combats senescent cells is called autophagy, which involves the degradation and recycling of damaged components, including organelles and proteins. During periods of fasting, when energy sources are scarce, cells initiate autophagy to break down unnecessary or dysfunctional components, rejuvenating themselves in the process.
Fasting has also been shown to reduce glucose levels in the blood, which makes it difficult for cancers to grow. Cancer cells consume glucose at a much higher level than normal cells do.
During fasting periods, the body exhausts its immediate glucose reserves and starts utilizing stored fats for energy. This metabolic shift triggers various cellular responses that lead to the removal of senescent cells.
The synergy between cutting-edge research and ancient dietary practices holds the promise to a healthier, longer life. In this article we have summarized some recent scientific breakthroughs in the benefits of fasting as it relates to reducing the risk of disease. Fasting also improves gut health, regulates hormones, resets the body, detoxifies organs, enhances cognitive function, helps with mindfulness, and promotes weight loss.
Through our nutrition company at FastEatLive.com, we have helped hundreds of clients integrate “fasting” into their social and active lifestyles. We also guide our community on best fuel choices for their bodies. Reach out via our website or Instagram (@fasteatlive) to learn how you can get connected.
We also suggest before embarking on your own fasting regimen, that you consult with healthcare professionals, especially for those with existing medical conditions. ◆
For further health coaching on this topic and more, contact us at FastEatLive.com
