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Updated: Aug 6, 2025
08:06
Assessment of the Metabolic Effects of Isocaloric 2:1 Intermittent Fasting in Mice
Published on: November 27, 2019
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Intermittent fasting and immunomodulatory effects: A systematic review.
Zhangyuting He1, Haifeng Xu2, Changcan Li2
1Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
Frontiers in Nutrition
|March 17, 2023
Summary
Intermittent fasting (IF) aids weight loss and improves metabolic health. This review summarizes IF's immune-modulating effects, highlighting benefits like reduced inflammation and strengthened circadian rhythms.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Metabolic Health
- Chronobiology
Background:
- Intermittent fasting (IF) involves periodic food restriction and fixed eating windows.
- IF shows potential for weight loss, metabolic regulation, and immune modulation.
- Comprehensive assessment of IF's immunomodulatory effects and mechanisms is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review clinical trials on the immunomodulatory effects of intermittent fasting.
- To compare the specific effects and mechanisms of IF on the immune system.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of clinical trials.
- Screening and inclusion of relevant studies.
- 28 studies were included in the final analysis.
Main Results:
- IF contributes to weight loss and strengthens circadian rhythms.
- IF promotes immune cell migration, reduces inflammatory factors, and enriches the gut microbiome.
- Anti-inflammatory effects involve macrophage regulation; oxidative stress protection is mediated by hormone secretion and gene expression.
Conclusions:
- IF offers multifaceted health benefits beyond weight loss, including immune system modulation.
- IF may help alleviate physiological stress and treat certain disorders like anxiety and cognitive impairments.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate IF's immune-related mechanisms in various conditions.
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