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Updated: Sep 16, 2025
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Assessment of the Metabolic Effects of Isocaloric 2:1 Intermittent Fasting in Mice
Published on: November 27, 2019
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A Comprehensive Perspective on the Biological Effects of Intermittent Fasting and Periodic Short-Term Fasting: A
Barbara Ciastek1, Karolina Kapłon1, Przemysław Domaszewski1
1Institute of Health Sciences, University of Opole, Katowicka 68, 45-060 Opole, Poland.
Nutrients
|July 12, 2025
Summary
Intermittent fasting (IF) and periodic short-term fasting (PSTF) offer metabolic benefits by enhancing fat utilization and improving insulin sensitivity. This review covers IF and PSTF protocols, focusing on signaling pathways and safe preparation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic Physiology
- Cellular Biology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Intermittent fasting (IF) and periodic short-term fasting (PSTF) are recognized for their therapeutic potential in metabolic diseases.
- Fasting induces metabolic switching from glucose to fatty acid/ketone utilization, improving fat metabolism, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity.
- IF influences the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor 1 (GH/IGF-1) axis, impacting cellular protection, aging, and tumorigenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on IF and PSTF (24-72 hours).
- To highlight the signaling pathways affected by these fasting interventions.
- To provide practical guidance for safe preparation for PSTF.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of intermittent fasting and periodic short-term fasting protocols.
- Analysis of signaling pathways modulated by fasting, including MAPK, Notch, and NF-κB.
- Synthesis of information on metabolic switching and hormonal axis modulation.
Main Results:
- Fasting enhances fat metabolism, improves glucose homeostasis, and modulates the GH/IGF-1 axis.
- Key signaling pathways (MAPK, Notch, NF-κB) are modulated, leading to reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, and enhanced hepatoprotection.
- Fasting protocols demonstrate multidimensional biological effects relevant to metabolic health and aging.
Conclusions:
- Intermittent fasting and PSTF offer significant benefits for metabolic health through various biological mechanisms.
- Understanding the signaling pathways involved is crucial for optimizing fasting strategies.
- Adequate preparation is essential for the safe and effective implementation of PSTF protocols exceeding 24 hours.
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