This is What Intermittent Fasting LONG TERM Does to Your Body

Summary

The video script discusses the benefits of intermittent fasting for longevity, as recognized by the National Institute of Aging. It emphasizes that the advantages are not just weight loss but also metabolic switching, leading to improved health and resilience. The script cites studies showing fasting's positive impact on genes like PGC-1α, which boosts mitochondrial biogenesis, and on factors like brain-derived neurotropic factor, enhancing cognitive function. It also highlights fasting's role in reducing the risk of heart failure and improving cardiovascular health. The speaker recommends trying fasting for better overall health and lifespan.

Takeaways

• 📢 The National Institute of Aging recognizes fasting as beneficial for longevity and health.
• 🔍 The benefits of intermittent fasting are not just from weight loss but also from metabolic switching.
• 🧬 Fasting triggers ketone formation, which can act as signaling molecules to change gene expression and promote health.
• 🌟 The gene PGC-1α is activated during fasting, leading to increased mitochondrial biogenesis and potentially more efficient fat burning.
• 💪 Fasting may help in the production of new collagen and connective tissue, supporting joint health.
• 🧠 Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression is increased with fasting, which is crucial for brain function and new neuron creation.
• 💓 Fasting can improve cardiovascular health by positively affecting blood pressure, heart rate, and lipid levels.
• 🛡️ A study showed that individuals who fasted weekly had a 45% lower mortality rate compared to non-fasters.
• 🧬 Fasting can lead to the activation of certain metabolites and preservation of muscle mass, combating sarcopenia.
• 🐛 Research on nematodes suggests that fasting can improve mitochondrial plasticity, which is linked to increased lifespan and metabolic health.

Q & A

What is the National Institute of Aging's stance on fasting and longevity?

The National Institute of Aging recognizes fasting as beneficial for longevity and acknowledges its lasting results, as discussed in a study published in the New England Medical Journal.

What is the main benefit of intermittent fasting according to the transcript?

The main benefit of intermittent fasting is not weight loss, but rather metabolic switching, which triggers positive metabolic changes and cascades in the body.

How does ketone formation during fasting contribute to health benefits?

Ketone formation during fasting acts as a signaling device that can change gene expression and potentially make the body healthier for a long time after exposure.

What is the role of PGC1A in the context of fasting and health?

PGC1A, when activated by fasting, increases mitochondrial biogenesis, leading to more energy factories in cells, which can ultimately help in burning more fat.

What does the transcript say about the effects of fasting on collagen and connective tissue?

Fasting increases the expression of fibroblast growth factor, which is essential for creating new collagen and connective tissue, potentially combating age-related issues.

How does fasting affect brain health according to the transcript?

Fasting increases the expression of brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF), which is crucial for brain function, creating new brain cells, and enhancing cognitive performance.

What is the significance of the 58-hour fasting study mentioned in the transcript?

The 58-hour fasting study showed significant metabolic alterations, including an increase in leucine, isoleucine, and ophthalmic acid, which are important for preventing muscle wasting and sarcopenia associated with aging.

What are the cardiovascular benefits of fasting as discussed in the transcript?

Fasting has been shown to improve blood pressure, resting heart rate, triglyceride levels, stabilize HDL and LDL levels, support healthy glucose levels, and reduce insulin levels, all of which contribute to better cardiovascular health.

How does fasting affect the parasympathetic tone and heart rate variability?

Fasting enhances the parasympathetic tone, improving the body's ability to switch between sympathetic and parasympathetic states, which in turn improves heart rate variability and the heart's response to stressors.

What is the significance of mitochondrial plasticity in the context of fasting and aging?

Mitochondrial plasticity, which involves the ability of mitochondria to switch between fused and fragmented states, is improved by fasting. This improvement is linked to better energy production and is crucial for preventing metabolic disorders and promoting longevity.

What recommendation does the speaker have for those who are not currently fasting?

The speaker suggests that those who are not fasting might consider incorporating periodic fasting, such as a once-a-week fast, into their routine for potential long-term health and lifespan benefits.