Risks of intermittent fasting for adolescents
A study by Munich Technical University (Germany) published in the journal Cell Reports showed that intermittent fasting has different effects on each age group.
Research shows that, while it benefits the elderly, younger people, intermittent fasting is harmful to the growth of pancreatic cells.
This raises concerns about the negative impact of this method on adolescents and young people.
Research results show a clear difference between age groups. Prolonged fasting has impaired cell growth, especially affecting beta cells that produce insulin, an important factor in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
This shows that intermittent fasting can cause problems with insulin production in adolescents, increasing the risk of diabetes in the future.
Information about the research
Research by German scientists has tested on three groups of mice: young mice (equivalent to human adolescence), middle-aged mice and elderly mice. Each group followed a diet in which they fasted for 24 hours, followed by 48 hours of normal eating. Researchers have monitored the short-term (5 weeks) and long-term (10 weeks) effects of this method.
Initial results showed positive signals when all groups improved their ability to process sugar in the body. However, after a long period of fasting, there have been clear changes among age groups.
While older and middle-aged mice continue to benefit from intermittent fasting, young mice are starting to show worrying changes, especially a decrease in insulin production.
"We often think that intermittent fasting is beneficial for beta cells, but it is surprising that young mice produce less insulin after a long period of fasting," said Leonardo Matta, a co-author of the study from Helmholtz Munich.
Note
Although intermittent fasting can bring some benefits to adults, this method may not be safe for adolescents. Studies recommend that adolescents should be careful when applying this method due to risks to insulin production and body development.
Therefore, before following any diet, adolescents should consult a doctor or nutritionist to ensure their health and comprehensive development.
