Intermittent Fasting: Enhancing Metabolic and Cognitive Health in Aging

Aging is a complex biological process characterized by a gradual decline in physiological functions, leading to increased susceptibility to diseases and mortality. Recent studies suggest that dietary interventions like intermittent fasting (IF) can positively influence the aging process and promote longevity. Intermittent fasting involves alternating periods of eating and fasting, with various methods such as time-restricted feeding (e.g., 16/8) and whole-day fasting (e.g., 5:2).

The potential benefits of IF for aging are supported by extensive preclinical research, primarily conducted in model organisms like rodents, which have shown lifespan extension and improved healthspan. However, the mechanisms by which IF exerts these effects and its applicability to humans require further exploration.

This Research Topic aims to explore the interaction between (IF) and the new Hallmarks of Aging. By examining how IF influences critical processes like proteostasis, mitochondrial function, and nutrient-sensing pathways, we seek to understand its role in promoting longevity and reducing age-related decline. Additionally, this collection will assess how IF impacts cellular senescence, genomic stability, and microbiome health.

We will also like to explore how IF compares with other dietary interventions, such as caloric restriction and alternate-day fasting, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness and unique benefits of each approach in targeting these aging hallmarks. This comprehensive analysis will provide valuable insights into developing optimized dietary strategies for healthy aging.

We seek to deepen our understanding of IF as a viable non-pharmacological strategy to enhance healthspan and lifespan. By elucidating the physiological and molecular effects of IF, this Research Topic aims to contribute valuable insights into aging interventions, potentially informing public health recommendations and individualized dietary practices.

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Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Clinical Trial
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: intermittent fasting, autophagy, aging, hormone regulation, metabolic pathway

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