In recent years, intermittent fasting has been adopted as a promising approach to achieving improved metabolic health and weight loss. Although the benefits of intermittent fasting, including lower inflammation, reduced oxidative stress, and enhanced longevity have been ascertained and well documented, a new study showing a potential downside to engaging in intermittent fasting has emerged.
A recent study carried out on mice at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has shown the tendency to develop colon cancer during the refeeding phase after intermittent fasting. This finding raises an important question: is intermittent fasting linked to colon cancer?
Understanding Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting is a dietary pattern linked with fasting period and normal eating. It is focused on when you eat and not what you eat. Common variations of intermittent fasting include fasting for 16-8 hours daily, fasting for an entire day once or twice a week, or alternate-day fasting.
During this fasting period, the body undergoes several metabolic changes which reduce insulin levels, increase glucagon, and shift to fat-derived energy sources; these are believed to contribute to the health benefits of intermittent fasting.
Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
Research has shown that intermittent fasting has extensive benefits such as weight loss, improved heart and brain health, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, and potential protection against different types of cancer.
It also lowers oxidative stress and inflammation; two factors in aging and chronic disease development. Improved cellular repair mechanisms and longevity are also associated with the benefits of intermittent fasting.
The Link Between Intermittent Fasting and Colon Cancer
Despite the long standing benefits attributed to intermittent fasting, a recent MIT study has shed light on a potential risk associated with intermittent fasting.
The study shows that during the refeeding period, after a fasting period, the body's cells shift into a highly regenerative state which is beneficial for repairing tissues but can also make cells more vulnerable to cancerous changes. While this regeneration helps repair damaged tissue, it also has an increased risk of tumor formation in the colon.
The researchers discovered that when cancer-causing genes were activated during the refeeding phase, there was a possibility of developing increased precancerous polyps compared to when these genes were activated during fasting. The sudden influx of nutrients during refeeding triggers rapid cell proliferation, making the intestinal stem cells more susceptible to cancerous changes.
This finding raises concerns on the potential risks of intermittent fasting particularly in individuals at high risk of developing colon cancer.
The Bottom Line
While intermittent fasting has numerous health benefits, the recent MIT study highlights a critical concern. The potential link that exists between intermittent fasting and the risk of colon cancer during the refeeding phase calls for further research. Understanding the complexity of the biological mechanisms and how they may lead to cancer is very important.
While the benefits of intermittent fasting remain compelling, individuals should approach this dietary pattern with caution to minimize the risk of colon cancer while maximizing its health benefits and consult a dietician before making any significant changes to their eating habits.