URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29086496
Journal: Obesity
Publication Date: 02/2018
Summary: Emerging findings suggest that the metabolic switch from glucose to fatty acid-derived ketones represents an evolutionarily conserved trigger point that shifts metabolism from lipid/cholesterol synthesis and fat storage to mobilization of fat through fatty acid oxidation and fatty acid-derived ketones, which serve to preserve muscle mass and function. Thus, IF regimens that induce the metabolic switch have the potential to improve body composition in overweight individuals. Moreover, IF regimens also induce the coordinated activation of signaling pathways that optimize physiological function, enhance performance, and slow aging and disease processes. Future randomized controlled IF trials should use biomarkers of the metabolic switch (e.g., plasma ketone levels) as a measure of compliance and of the magnitude of negative energy balance during the fasting period.
Key Takeaways
The benefits of intermittent fasting come from the switch from a carbohydrate fuel source to a fat fuel source. This switch results in the production of ketone bodies and serves to preserve muscle mass, enhance physical performance, and slow aging and disease.
