Written By THT Editorial Team
Reviewed by Dr. Prakash Paudel, Consultant Neurosurgeon – Spine Surgery, MBBS(IOM), FCPS (Pakistan) CFSS (Canada)
New research suggests that intermittent fasting may have positive effects on brain function and cognitive performance. Intermittent fasting is a dietary pattern that involves cycling between periods of fasting and eating.
According to a study published in the journal Aging, intermittent fasting was associated with improvements in cognitive function, such as memory and learning, in mice. Another study published in the journal Nutrients found that intermittent fasting may improve cognitive function and reduce inflammation in healthy individuals.
Intermittent fasting has also been shown to have potential benefits for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. A study published in the journal Neurochemistry International found that intermittent fasting may reduce cognitive impairment in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
Research has also suggested that intermittent fasting may have positive effects on mood and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science found that intermittent fasting may reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in overweight individuals.
Despite these findings, more research is needed to determine the optimal timing and duration of fasting for brain health benefits. It is important to note that intermittent fasting may not be appropriate for everyone, especially individuals with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Overall, the research suggests that intermittent fasting may have potential benefits for brain function and cognitive performance. However, individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to their diet or lifestyle.
REFERENCES
- Moro, T., Tinsley, G., Bianco, A., Marcolin, G., Pacelli, Q. F., Battaglia, G., Palma, A., Gentil, P., Neri, M., & Paoli, A. (2016). Effects of eight weeks of time-restricted feeding (16/8) on basal metabolism, maximal strength, body composition, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk factors in resistance-trained males. Journal of translational medicine, 14(1), 290. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-016-1044-0
- Maalouf, M., Rho, J. M., & Mattson, M. P. (2009). The neuroprotective properties of calorie restriction, the ketogenic diet, and ketone bodies. Brain research reviews, 59(2), 293-315. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainresrev.2008.09.002
- Antoni, R., Johnston, K. L., Collins, A. L., & Robertson, M. D. (2019). Effects of intermittent fasting on mood and cognition in adults with overweight/obesity: Results from the HELENA randomized controlled trial. Journal of Nutritional Science, 8, e35. https://doi.org/10.1017/jns.2019.29
- Vasconcelos, A. R., Yshii, L. M., Viel, T. A., Buck, H. S., & Mattson, M. P. (2014). Intermittent fasting attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation and memory impairment. Journal of neuroinflammation, 11(1), 85. https://doi.org/10.1186/1742-2094-11-85
- Alirezaei, M., Kemball, C. C., Flynn, C. T., Wood, M. R., Whitton, J. L., & Kiosses, W. B. (2010). Short-term fasting induces profound neuronal autophagy. Autophagy, 6(6), 702-710. https://doi.org/10.4161/auto.6.6.12376