The healthy hungry age better
Care # 35
Tl;Dr
Fasting is not only safe but essential for older adults, offering numerous benefits like life extension and activation of anti-aging genes.
It helps alleviate age-related health issues such as obesity, high blood pressure, and dementia by promoting metabolic flexibility.
Fasting supports DNA and mitochondrial repair through autophagy, enhancing cellular function and reducing cancer risk.
It boosts heart and brain health by increasing ketone production and stimulating neuronal regeneration with BDNF.
The practice enhances the body's antioxidant network, reducing free radical damage and supporting cardiovascular health.
For individuals over the age of 50 fasting is a vital practice for enhancing health and longevity. Research shows that fasting triggers anti-aging genes, promotes DNA and mitochondrial repair, and alleviates age-related conditions like obesity, inflammation, and high blood pressure. By stimulating brain health, enhancing heart function, and boosting the body's antioxidant defenses, fasting can significantly improve quality of life in later years.
Connections to anti-aging genes, reversing cognitive decline, reducing cancer and increasing BDNF
Activation of Anti-Aging Genes: Fasting activates anti-aging genes, triggering cellular mechanisms that promote longevity and counteract the effects of aging, potentially extending life span.
Alleviation of Aging-Related Health Problems: By improving metabolic flexibility and optimizing cellular processes, fasting helps reduce health issues related to aging, such as obesity, high blood pressure, and cognitive decline.
DNA & Mitochondrial Repair: Through the process of autophagy, fasting promotes the repair of damaged DNA and mitochondria, enhancing cellular health and reducing cancer risk.
Heart Health: Fasting increases ketone production, providing an efficient fuel source for the heart and brain and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It also enhances the body's antioxidant network, reducing free radical damage and supporting the repair of blood vessel linings, further contributing to cardiovascular health.
Brain Health & Neuronal Regeneration: Fasting boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) production, which enhances neuroplasticity, promotes neuronal regeneration, and improves cognitive function. This increase in BDNF allows for better nerve communication and adaptive responses, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders.
Discover other connections: How does fasting affect hormones? | Brain health 101 | Your energy source | Faster weight loss on slow thyroid | When to eat? | Less (eating) is more (healthy)
ACCELERATE CARE 🏎️
Consider Intermittent Fasting: Start with a simple fasting routine, such as 16:8, to experience the benefits of autophagy, DNA repair, and enhanced brain health.
Monitor Ketone Levels: Utilize tools like ketone strips to monitor your body's response to fasting and optimize the production of ketones for heart and brain health.
Stay Hydrated & Nourished: Ensure proper hydration and nutrient intake during eating windows to support overall health and recovery while fasting.
Incorporate Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds to complement fasting and boost the body's antioxidant defenses.
Consult with Healthcare Providers: If you have any underlying health conditions, consult with a healthcare provider before starting a fasting regimen to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs.
Self-Care 👀
How comfortable are you with experiencing hunger as a tool for better health?
Sources
Dr Eric Berg - Is It Safe for an Older Person to Fast?
Dr Eric Berg - Brain Repair and BDNF Increase with Intermittent Fasting