A recent study highlights the intricate health benefits of prolonged fasting, particularly after three days without food. Researchers from Queen Mary University of London and the Norwegian School of Sports Sciences found significant molecular adaptations across multiple organs during fasting. Their work suggests that fasting not only aids in weight loss but also triggers beneficial changes at a cellular level linked to organ health.
Over a week-long study involving twelve healthy participants undergoing a water-only fast, researchers monitored changes in around 3,000 blood proteins. Within the first few days, the participants began transitioning from glucose to stored fat as an energy source. Notably, a third of the measured proteins adjusted significantly after three days of fasting, indicating a comprehensive response to calorie restriction that extends beyond mere weight management.
Experts believe these findings validate historical practices of fasting for various health conditions and emphasize the potential for developing therapeutic approaches for those unable to fast. Claudia Langenberg noted that the observed effects were only evident after three days, challenging previous assumptions about fasting’s benefits. This research paves the way for understanding how fasting can be utilized in clinical settings to improve health outcomes.
