Fasting may extend lifespan through re-feeding phase, new study finds

Key Points:

• A new study from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center found that the longevity benefits of intermittent fasting in worms depend more on the body's metabolic response during the re-feeding phase than on fasting itself.
• Researchers observed that after fasting, the ability to turn off fat breakdown and restore energy balance during re-feeding is linked to increased lifespan, highlighting the importance of metabolic flexibility.
• Experts caution that while the study offers valuable insights, its findings in worms may not directly apply to humans, and fasting should not be seen as a standalone solution for longevity.
• Nutrition specialists recommend focusing on overall diet quality with balanced meals and suggest moderate fasting plans, like 12- to 14-hour overnight fasts, rather than extreme fasting protocols.
• Certain populations, including people with diabetes on medication, pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with eating disorder histories, and older adults at risk of malnutrition, should avoid fasting or seek medical advice before attempting it.