Intermittent calorie restriction has been shown to improve executive function and memory measures in cognitively intact older adults, according to an exploratory pilot study. This study compared the effects of a 5:2 intermittent fasting plan versus a “healthy living” diet on brain health in overweight, cognitively normal older adults with insulin resistance. The findings from this study suggest that intermittent fasting may offer additional benefits for cognitive function compared to traditional dietary interventions.
The study, conducted over 8 weeks, aimed to determine the impact of intermittent calorie restriction on insulin resistance, cognitive performance, brain metabolism, and function in adults aged 55 to 70. Participants were divided into two groups: one following a 5:2 intermittent fasting plan consisting of 2 days with 480 calories/day and 5 days of a healthy living diet, and the other following a “healthy living” diet based on portion control and calorie reduction guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Both groups showed improvements in executive function and memory, with the intermittent fasting group demonstrating better results on certain cognitive measures.
Both diet interventions led to decreased BMI and waist circumference, but the intermittent fasting group showed better results overall. This group also exhibited markers suggesting increased ketogenesis and high compliance, which were not seen in the healthy living diet group. Brain glucose levels were reduced with both diets, with intermittent fasting showing a greater reduction. BrainAGE, a measure of brain aging, decreased with both diets. Executive function scores improved significantly with intermittent fasting, while no significant improvement was seen with the healthy living diet. Similarly, learning and memory improved with intermittent fasting but not with the healthy living diet.
These findings provide supporting evidence for the potential benefits of intermittent calorie restriction in promoting cognitive health in older adults. The study authors suggest that larger clinical trials are needed to further investigate the impact of various dietary interventions on brain health and overall well-being. While the study had limitations, such as a short duration and potential practice effects in cognitive performance, it lays the groundwork for future research in this area.
Intermittent calorie restriction may offer promising benefits for cognitive function in older adults, particularly those with insulin resistance. This study highlights the potential of dietary interventions in promoting brain health and overall cognitive well-being. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these benefits and to explore the long-term effects of intermittent fasting on cognitive function and brain health.
Leave a Reply