Benefits of Intermittent Fasting for Alzheimer's

—Jill Fandrich, PharmD, CRPh

Intermittent fasting has gained popularity not only for weight loss purposes but also for its potential benefits in managing diseases such as Alzheimer's. Several possible benefits for brain health could positively affect Alzheimer's. Here are some of the potential benefits of intermittent fasting:

1. Improved brain health - Intermittent fasting has been shown to promote the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps support the growth and maintenance of neurons. This can potentially lead to improved cognitive function and reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

2. Reduced inflammation - Intermittent fasting has been found to decrease inflammation in the brain, which is a common feature of Alzheimer's disease. By lowering inflammation, intermittent fasting may help protect against the development and progression of Alzheimer's.

3. Enhanced autophagy - Autophagy is a cellular process that helps remove damaged proteins and organelles and is important for maintaining brain health. Intermittent fasting has been shown to enhance autophagy, which may help clear toxic substances from the brain and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.

4. Improved insulin sensitivity - Intermittent fasting can help improve insulin sensitivity, which is important for brain health. Insulin resistance has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's, and by improving insulin sensitivity, intermittent fasting may help reduce this risk.

5. Enhanced neuroplasticity - Intermittent fasting has been shown to promote neuroplasticity, the ability of the brain to form and reorganize synaptic connections. This can potentially lead to improved learning and memory and may help protect against Alzheimer's disease.

6. Reduced oxidative stress - Intermittent fasting has been found to reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to neuronal damage and the development of Alzheimer's. By lowering oxidative stress, intermittent fasting may help protect against the disease.

Overall, intermittent fasting may have several benefits for brain health and could potentially help prevent or slow down the progression of Alzheimer's disease. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of intermittent fasting on Alzheimer's and to determine the optimal fasting regimen for individuals at risk of or living with the disease.

Intermittent fasting may help protect the brain against neurological diseases like Alzheimer's by reducing inflammation, improving brain function, and supporting overall neuroprotection.

—Dr. Jill

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