Effects of Caloric Restriction and Alternate Day Fasting on Human Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Allard Joanne S., Heilbronn Leonie K., Smith Carolina, Hunt Nicole D., Ingram Donald K., Ravussin Eric, de Cabo Rafael
Primary Institution: National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health
Hypothesis
Does caloric restriction (CR) and alternate day fasting (ADF) affect indicators of health and longevity in human cells?
Conclusion
The study found that serum from participants on ADF and CR increased stress resistance and protein levels associated with longevity in cultured human cells.
Supporting Evidence
- Cells cultured in serum from ADF participants showed a 20% increase in Sirt1 protein.
- ADF serum induced a 9% decrease in cell proliferation.
- Cells cultured in serum from CR participants showed a 17% increase in Sirt1 protein levels.
Takeaway
Eating less can help our cells be stronger and live longer, as shown by the changes in cells from people who fasted or ate fewer calories.
Methodology
Human serum samples were collected from participants of two studies and used to culture human hepatoma cells to assess growth, stress resistance, and gene expression.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the self-reported dietary habits of participants.
Limitations
The study is limited by the inability to directly measure lifespan effects in humans and relies on in vitro models.
Participant Demographics
Healthy, non-obese men and women aged 23-53 for ADF; overweight males and females aged 25-50 for CR.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.032
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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