Meta Information

ID:intermittent-fasting

Name:Intermittent Fasting

Schema Version:1.5

Title

Intermittent Fasting

Alternate Names

• IF
• Periodic Fasting

Intervention Type

dietary_practice

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

0

High Cost:

0

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

No direct cost; may reduce overall food expenses.

Summary

Intermittent fasting involves cycling between periods of voluntary fasting and non-fasting. This metabolic switch from glucose to fat utilization activates cellular repair processes like autophagy and enhances insulin sensitivity, mimicking some of the key benefits of caloric restriction, a well-established longevity intervention in model organisms.

Purpose

A dietary pattern to improve metabolic flexibility and activate cellular repair.

Card Summary

Cycles between eating and fasting to activate cellular repair pathways and improve metabolic health.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

8.2

Justification:

Systemic metabolic benefits including improved insulin sensitivity and activation of cellular autophagy.

Evidence

Grade:

B

Score:

7.8

Justification:

Strong human data for metabolic health; longevity benefits are inferred from animal models.

Safety

Score:

1.5

Justification:

Generally very safe for healthy adults but may pose risks for certain populations.

Flags

• Not recommended for individuals with a history of eating disorders.
• May be contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Individuals with diabetes or on medication should consult a physician before starting.
• Can cause initial side effects like headaches, fatigue, or irritability.

Verdict

A powerful, no-cost tool for improving metabolic health and cellular repair.

Created

2026-04-23T23:38:43.106694Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

none

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Intermittent fasting involves cycling between periods of voluntary fasting and non-fasting. This metabolic switch from glucose to fat utilization activates cellular repair processes like autophagy and...

Typical Protocol

• A common approach is 16:8, fasting for 16 hours and eating within an 8-hour window daily.
• More intensive protocols include alternate-day fasting or one to two 24-hour fasts per week.
• Aligning the eating window with daylight hours (e.g., 8 AM to 4 PM) may offer additional circadian benefits.