Episode Summary:

Dr. Dan breaks down the known science regarding intermittent fasting.

Topics discussed are as follows:

  1. Introduce intermittent fasting
  2. Different types of intermittent fasting
  3. Intermittent fasting in the scientific literature
  4. Potential mode of action of intermittent fasting
  5. Challenges and potential issues
  6. Key takeaways
  7. Future outlook

Episode References:

  • See here for a review of different types of intermittent fasting: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4516560/pdf/nihms663671.pdf
  • Caloric restriction and intermittent fasting cause weight loss to the same degree: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29700718
  • Intermittent fasting can reduce body fat in obese subjects: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30683819
  • Intermittent fasting can reduce triglyceride and LDL-cholesterol levels: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31377182
  • Periodic fasting can increase efficacy of cancer therapies: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27557543
  • Beneficial effects of intermittent fasting in asthma: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17291990
  • Intermittent fasting and bone health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30903600
  • Intermittent fasting supports healthy gene expression: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31356832
  • Athletic performance isn’t increased by intermittent fasting: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31283627
  • Intermittent fasting and arthritis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2837251
  • Long term mood is increased with intermittent fasting: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17263085
  • Safety precautions in intermittent fasting: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29405359