All articles tagged with #fasting
A small study of 23 fasted men found that sniffing a dark chocolate scent before leg extensions increased repetitions by about 18 compared with a neutral water scent, with milk chocolate yielding about 9 more reps. The effort rating did not change, suggesting a brain-driven cue rather than muscular changes; the study notes limitations including a small, all-male sample and focus on a single exercise.
An analysis of 63 studies (3,484 participants) found no meaningful difference in cognitive performance between short-term fasters and those who eat regularly, with median fasting around 12 hours. Some modest declines appear when fasting exceeds 12 hours and in children/teens, especially on food-related tasks; neutral tasks are largely unaffected and performance may dip later in the day during fasting. The authors frame fasting as a personal tool, not a universal prescription, recommending medical guidance for individuals considering fasting.
A seven-day water-only fast drives broad molecular shifts that become most evident after about three days, including changes in hundreds of circulating proteins linked to the extracellular matrix and brain support, alongside a switch from glucose to fat and about 5.7 kg of weight loss. Refeeding largely reverses lean-tissue loss while fat loss persists. These findings could inform therapies that mimic fasting’s benefits for metabolism, aging, and neurological health, though prolonged fasting carries risks and should be medically supervised.
New research questions the value of time-restricted eating for weight loss, with nutrition experts (including Michael Mosley) suggesting that sustainable results come from long-term, adherable approaches—focusing on total calories, adequate protein and fiber, whole foods, and regular physical activity rather than fixed eating windows.
The Vatican releases the full text of Pope Leo XIV's Lent 2026 message, urging conversion through listening to God's word, fasting as self-denial that clarifies desires and speech, and a communal, justice-driven journey—calling the faithful to listen to the cries of the poor and of the Earth and to transform relationships in a civilization of love.
Doctors warn that extreme fasting or overly restrictive diets can harm health, especially after age 50, by causing malnutrition, hormonal imbalance, muscle and bone loss, fatigue, and dizziness; intermittent fasting may help some, but sustainable, nutrient-rich calorie reduction is more reliable for long-term health, mobility, and quality of life.
A sweeping meta-analysis of 63 studies (3,484 participants) finds no meaningful difference in cognitive performance between fasted and fed healthy adults. Age matters (children fare worse when fasting); longer fasts may lessen performance gaps as ketones supply energy; testing later in the day and the presence of food cues can influence results; and the type of cognitive task matters. Overall, fasting appears compatible with maintained mental sharpness in adults, with caveats for kids and certain contexts, while metabolic benefits like autophagy and improved insulin sensitivity are noted but vary by individual.
A graphic visualization explains what happens during a 36-hour fast: the body shifts from burning stored glucose to fat via ketosis, autophagy begins as nutrients run low and cellular repair accelerates after 24 hours, with peak autophagy around the 36-hour mark. The piece also notes health risks for certain individuals, stresses medical supervision, and cites studies suggesting limited eating windows may carry long-term risks.
Strategic fasting, a mindful and structured eating pattern, may be an effective way to lose belly fat by improving how the body stores and uses energy, offering an alternative to simply exercising more or reducing calories.
A study in mice reveals that fasting enhances breast cancer treatment by affecting hormone signaling pathways and gene expression, potentially improving therapy outcomes and delaying resistance.
The article provides eight scientifically supported tips to lower cancer risk, including optimizing vitamin D levels, practicing intermittent fasting, adopting a low-carb diet, exposing oneself to cold therapy, cooking smarter, consuming anti-cancer foods, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle overall. While these strategies do not guarantee cancer prevention, they can significantly reduce the risk and improve overall health.
A comprehensive review of 71 studies found that fasting does not impair cognitive performance in healthy adults, though it may affect children, adolescents, and specific situations like late-day testing or food-related tasks. The research suggests fasting can be a safe health practice for most adults without sacrificing mental sharpness, but caution is advised for certain groups.
Dr. Pradip Jamnadas, a cardiologist with over 31 years of experience, recommends a gradual fasting routine starting with 12-12 hours and progressing to 18-6 hours to effectively and safely reduce visceral belly fat, which is linked to heart health issues. For severe cases like diabetes or significant obesity, he suggests more extended fasts such as 48-hour fasts or OMAD. The approach emphasizes hydration and gradual adaptation, highlighting fasting as a healing and fat-burning tool rather than starvation.
A comprehensive review of 71 studies found that fasting does not impair cognitive performance in healthy adults, though children, adolescents, and certain situations may be exceptions. The research suggests fasting can be safely practiced without sacrificing mental sharpness, especially in adults, and highlights factors like age, fasting duration, and task type that influence its effects.
A simulation reveals that fasting for 36 hours triggers significant biological changes, including fat burning, autophagy, and tissue repair, but health experts advise consulting a medical professional before attempting prolonged fasts due to potential risks.