Impact of intermittent fasting on health and disease processes

This 2017 review summarized research on intermittent fasting, meaning planned periods of little or no food, in people and animals. It did not test one new group of participants. The studies suggested possible benefits for weight, blood sugar, blood pressure, and the body’s ability to handle stress. However, human studies were limited, used different fasting schedules, and could not always show that fasting itself caused the benefits.

What this means for you: This is not strong proof that intermittent fasting prevents disease or is better than ordinary healthy eating. You can consider it only if it is safe and sustainable for you, but do not buy special products based on this review.