Fasting: Molecular mechanisms and clinical applications

Valter D. Longo, Mark P. Mattson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

541 Scopus citations

Abstract

Fasting has been practiced for millennia, but, only recently, studies have shed light on its role in adaptive cellular responses that reduce oxidative damage and inflammation, optimize energy metabolism, and bolster cellular protection. In lower eukaryotes, chronic fasting extends longevity, in part, by reprogramming metabolic and stress resistance pathways. In rodents intermittent or periodic fasting protects against diabetes, cancers, heart disease, and neurodegeneration, while in humans it helps reduce obesity, hypertension, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, fasting has the potential to delay aging and help prevent and treat diseases while minimizing the side effects caused by chronic dietary interventions.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)181-192
Number of pages12
JournalCell Metabolism
Volume19
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 4 2014

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Physiology

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