A groundbreaking study by researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center found how fasting could affect cancer cells.
The study suggests that fasting reprograms NK cells to rely on fat for energy instead of sugar.
Another study by the German Cancer Research Center explored the effects of intermittent fasting on liver health and cancer risk, he added.
The study suggests that this fasting regimen triggers metabolic changes that minimise liver fat and inflammation, both key contributors to liver cancer development.
(file) The study suggests that this fasting regimen triggers metabolic changes that minimise liver fat and inflammation, both key contributors to liver cancer development.
Cancer remains a formidable foe, but recent research is shedding light on potential strategies to combat it, and one avenue gaining traction is fasting.
A groundbreaking study by researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center found how fasting could affect cancer cells. Their research in mice indicates that fasting empowers the body’s natural defence system against cancer. Fasting appears to enhance the function of natural killer (NK) cells, a crucial component of the immune system tasked with attacking cancerous cells.
The study suggests that fasting reprograms NK cells to rely on fat for energy instead of sugar. This metabolic shift allows them to function more effectively in targeting and eliminating cancer cells. By enabling NK cells to thrive in the harsh tumour environment, fasting potentially improves their cancer-fighting abilities.
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Dr Rajesh Shinde, Consultant HPB & Gastrointestinal Oncology & Robotic Surgery Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, explained that prior to this new study, research has hinted at fasting’s potential for cancer prevention. A 2012 study on mice revealed that short-term fasting might shield healthy cells from the detrimental side effects of chemotherapy drugs. Similarly, a 2016 study in mice suggested that short-term fasting before chemotherapy administration could minimise toxicity.
Another study by the German Cancer Research Center explored the effects of intermittent fasting on liver health and cancer risk, he added. Their findings in mice suggest that intermittent fasting schedules (five days of regular eating followed by two days of restricted calorie intake) may reduce the risk of fatty liver disease, liver inflammation, and even liver cancer.
The study suggests that this fasting regimen triggers metabolic changes that minimise liver fat and inflammation, both key contributors to liver cancer development. (file) The study suggests that this fasting regimen triggers metabolic changes that minimise liver fat and inflammation, both key contributors to liver cancer development. (file)
Does this translate in human bodies?
According to Dr Shinde, the thesis that fasting may hold promise in reducing cancer risk stems from its potential impact on insulin levels and cellular processes. High insulin levels have been linked to promoting cancer cell growth. Fasting, by lowering insulin levels, could create a less favourable environment for cancer cells to thrive, he said.
Furthermore, fasting appears to activate processes that eliminate damaged cells while promoting repair. This targeted cleaning act could remove pre-cancerous cells before they escalate. He added, fasting is thought to increase the body’s natural antioxidants, which shield cells from damage that can lead to cancer.
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However, it’s important to consider individual circumstances. Dietary restrictions may be challenging for patients already experiencing weight loss due to cancer or its treatment.
Important considerations and the road ahead
While these studies offer promising insights, it’s crucial to note that they were conducted on mice. Further research in humans is vital to confirm these findings for practical application, Dr Shinde said. Additionally, the study on mice highlighted two specific proteins that play a role in fasting’s protective effects. Understanding their function better could pave the way for the development of novel cancer treatment strategies.
