Psychophysiological study on fasting therapy

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Neuroscience
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Fasting therapy is increasingly recognized for its potential health benefits.
• Understanding the therapeutic mechanisms of fasting is crucial for its clinical application.
• Psychosomatic diseases present complex challenges in treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical efficacy of the Tohoku University method of fasting therapy.
• To investigate the underlying therapeutic mechanisms of fasting therapy.
• To identify suitable indications for fasting therapy.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 380 patients underwent the Tohoku University fasting therapy.
• Clinical outcomes were assessed, yielding an overall efficacy rate.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) power spectral analysis and urinary 17-hydroxycorticosteroids (17-OHCS) measurements were performed before, during, and after therapy.

Main Results:

• An 87% efficacy rate was observed across the patient cohort.
• Fasting therapy demonstrated effectiveness for conditions including irritable colon syndrome, neurocirculatory asthenia, mild diabetes mellitus, obesity, and borderline hypertension.
• EEG analysis showed decreased peak frequency during fasting and increased alpha wave energy post-therapy. Dexamethasone suppression rate of urine 17-OHCS was significantly lower after therapy.

Conclusions:

• Fasting therapy, particularly via ketone nutrition, may act as a stressor that activates the body's inherent healing mechanisms.
• This process appears to induce a temporary stress state, ultimately promoting homeostasis.
• The findings support fasting therapy as a viable treatment for specific psychosomatic and metabolic conditions.