French biochemist Jesse Inchauspé, in her new Instagram post, busts the myth linking fasting to longevity. She clarified that caloric restriction doesn’t slow down aging or increase your lifespan, something people have believed for a long time.
Explaining her stance, she said, “Now, thanks to studies done on monkeys, we know that’s not really the case. The data is not so conclusive. Fasting does not automatically lead to a longer lifespan at all.”
However, she added that one thing that really does work is exercising. “Studies show us that if we exercise regularly, we can live up to 7 to 10 years longer than somebody who does not exercise. So if you want to live longer, the first thing you need to do is exercise three times a week. That is the solution. Fasting is not nearly as powerful as exercise.”
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In her caption, she wrote, “Fasting is not a magic bullet. Thanks to 25-year-long studies on monkeys that started in the 80s, we know that if monkeys eat an unhealthy diet, then fasting makes them live longer. BUT when they already eat a healthy diet, fasting makes no difference at all to their lifespan.”
Several people commented on her post, with some agreeing with her and others disagreeing. One user said, “I love how science just keeps proving that if you regularly exercise and eat a balanced diet, you will be healthier than trying to follow an extreme method.” Another wrote, “Exercising, social connections, and insulin control are the literal definitions of Blue Zones.”
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One user shared, “Met an 85-year-old woman who looked 65. She said a monthly fast was her secret!” Another commented, “To me, it is not about living longer but about the condition you want to be in when you reach a certain age.”
In an earlier post, the French biochemist shared that fasting is a stressor on the body, especially for those with hectic lives and women of reproductive age.
However, she shared three golden rules for people who’d still like to fast:
- Break your fast with something savoury (nothing sweet except whole fruit) to make sure your glucose stays steady.
- Eat enough protein to maintain your muscle mass.
- Check in with your body every day to see how it feels. It should feel easy and make you feel better than you already do. If not, it might not be right for you at that time.
1. What are the benefits of fasting?
Fasting can improve insulin sensitivity, support weight loss, enhance metabolic health, and promote cellular repair processes. However, it may not necessarily extend lifespan.
2. Does fasting increase lifespan?
Studies on monkeys indicate that fasting does not automatically lead to a longer lifespan. A healthy diet and regular exercise are more effective for longevity.
3. How does fasting affect those with hectic lives or women of reproductive age?
Fasting can be a stressor for individuals with busy lives or women of reproductive age. It is important to monitor how your body feels and ensure fasting is suitable for you.
4. What are the best practices for fasting?
Break your fast with savoury foods, consume sufficient protein to maintain muscle mass, and regularly assess how your body feels. Fasting should feel easy and improve your wellbeing.
5. Is exercise more effective than fasting for longevity?
Yes, regular exercise has been shown to extend lifespan by 7 to 10 years, which is more significant than the effects of fasting.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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