The surprising cause of fasting’s regenerative powers

https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02700-2

By Max Kozlov

Fasting isn’t just about going without food; it’s what happens afterward that really matters, it seems. A recent study shows that refeeding after fasting sparks a surge in intestinal stem cells, which helps repair damage. But there’s a catch: if a cancer-causing gene is triggered during this refeeding phase, the risk of developing tumours increases. The research highlights the delicate balance between fasting’s benefits and potential risks, emphasizing the need for further study, especially in humans.