A groundbreaking study has revealed a potential connection between intermittent fasting and the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that time-restricted feeding, which involves eating within a specific daily window, may help stabilize disrupted circadian rhythms and ease some of the most challenging symptoms of the disease.
The study, led by senior author Paula Desplats, PhD, challenged long-held views about Alzheimer’s, suggesting that lifestyle factors such as sleep and nutrition play a more active role in its progression than previously thought. The researchers believe that time-restricted feeding could be a valuable tool in managing the disease, particularly in reducing cognitive decline.
The study’s findings are based on experiments with mice models that mimicked human Alzheimer’s disease. The mice were restricted to eat within a six-hour window, resulting in improved memory, reduced nighttime hyperactivity, and a consistent sleep pattern. Moreover, these mice outperformed control groups in cognitive assessments and exhibited molecular-level improvements.
The potential implications of this research are significant, with Desplats suggesting that stabilizing circadian rhythms could make a huge difference in managing Alzheimer’s. “If we can reproduce our results in humans, this approach could be a simple way to dramatically improve the lives of people living with Alzheimer’s and those who care for them,” she said.
While these findings are promising, it is essential to note that drastic lifestyle changes should not be made without consulting healthcare professionals. However, if replicated in human clinical trials, time-restricted feeding may offer a new paradigm for treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Source: https://www.thebrighterside.news/health/breakthrough-study-reveals-connection-between-alzheimers-and-intermittent-fasting