The science of cellular renewal through fasting. 1,342 peer-reviewed studies on how time-restricted eating activates autophagy for longevity and metabolic health.
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Human Studies
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RCTs
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Animal Studies
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Reviews
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Key findings from 1,342 peer-reviewed studies, including 178 randomized controlled trials and 2 meta-analyses.
Multiple studies confirm significant autophagy upregulation begins around 16-24 hours of fasting in humans, with peak activation at 48-72 hours.
RCTs show time-restricted eating improves metabolic markers (insulin sensitivity, blood pressure) even without caloric deficit, suggesting autophagy-mediated effects.
Intermittent fasting enhances brain autophagy, clearing misfolded proteins associated with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Animal models show improved cognitive function.
Meta-analyses show fasting reduces inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6), improves lipid profiles, and enhances heart rate variability through autophagic renewal of cardiac cells.
Autophagy triggered by fasting clears damaged organelles and promotes stem cell regeneration. Studies show enhanced tissue repair capacity after fasting periods.
Preclinical studies suggest fasting-induced autophagy may help prevent cancer initiation by removing damaged DNA and dysfunctional mitochondria before they become malignant.
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Nutrient Depletion
mTOR inhibited, AMPK activated
Autophagosome Formation
Double-membrane vesicles engulf cargo
Lysosomal Fusion
Cargo degraded by lysosomal enzymes
Recycling
Amino acids/lipids reused for new proteins