A new study from the Yilmaz Lab demonstrates the benefits and downside of fasting.
While low-calorie diets and intermittent fasting are known to boost intestinal regeneration and aid recovery from injuries or inflammation, this study, published in Nature, reveals something new: it also leads to a higher risk of cancer in mice. Further studies are needed before forming any conclusion as to whether fasting has a similar effect in humans.
This research was funded in part by the MIT Stem Cell Initiative, the Koch Institute Frontier Research Program via the Kathy and Curt Marble Cancer Research Fund, and the Bridge Project.