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A groundbreaking study has raised concerns about the safety of intermittent fasting, particularly for adolescents. Researchers from the Technical University of Munich (TUM), LMU Hospital Munich, and Helmholtz Munich found that chronic intermittent fasting negatively impacted the development of insulin-producing beta cells in young mice.
These findings suggest that while intermittent fasting is known to have health benefits, such as boosting metabolism and aiding weight loss, it may also pose risks for younger individuals during critical developmental stages.
Impact on Metabolism Varies by Age
The study, published in Cell Reports, examined three groups of mice: adolescent, adult, and older animals. These mice underwent a fasting regimen where they were deprived of food for one day and fed normally for the following two days. After ten weeks, the results showed improved insulin sensitivity in adult and older mice, leading to better metabolic responses to insulin, a crucial factor in blood sugar regulation and diabetes prevention.
However, adolescent mice experienced a significant decline in beta cell function, which is essential for insulin production. Insufficient insulin can lead to metabolic disorders and an increased risk of diabetes. “Intermittent fasting is usually thought to benefit beta cells, so we were surprised to find that young mice produced less insulin after the extended fasting,” said Leonardo Matta from Helmholtz Munich, one of the study’s lead authors.
Parallels with Type 1 Diabetes
Using advanced single-cell sequencing techniques, researchers discovered that beta cells in young mice failed to mature properly. The affected beta cells exhibited characteristics similar to those found in patients with type 1 diabetes, where insulin production is compromised due to an autoimmune response. This suggests that fasting may interfere with normal cell development in younger individuals.
“Our study confirms that intermittent fasting is beneficial for adults, but it might come with risks for children and teenagers,” said Stephan Herzig, a professor at TUM and director of the Institute for Diabetes and Cancer at Helmholtz Munich. He emphasized the need for further research to uncover the molecular mechanisms at play and to explore ways to support healthy beta cell development.
What This Means for Humans
While this study was conducted on mice, its implications for humans are significant. Adolescence is a crucial period for metabolic and hormonal development, and dietary practices during this stage can have long-term consequences. The findings suggest that while intermittent fasting can be an effective strategy for adults, caution should be exercised when applying it to younger individuals.
As intermittent fasting continues to gain popularity, healthcare professionals may need to reassess recommendations for adolescents and other vulnerable populations. Future studies are necessary to determine the extent to which these findings apply to humans and to develop fasting strategies that are both effective and safe for all age groups.
Reference
Matta, L., Weber, P., Erener, S., et al. (2025). Chronic intermittent fasting impairs β cell maturation and function in adolescent mice. Cell Reports. DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.115225
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals, especially adolescents and those with pre-existing health conditions, should consult a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary changes, including intermittent fasting.
