Intermittent fasting is considered an effective way to lose weight. But a study shows: it may slow down hair growth. What does it have to do with stress and what do the side effects of this form of eating mean.
Many people turn to intermittent fasting to lose weight, improve thier health, or improve their metabolism. However, the popular method may have an unwanted side effect: A Chinese study shows that intermittent fasting slows hair growth in mice. According to the research team, there are signs of similar effects in humans too in the magazine “Cell”.
Intermittent fasting has been in fashion for several years with diffrent possible methods: for example the 8:16 method involves eating for eight hours a day and fasting for the remaining 16 hours.With the 5:2 method, however, you eat normally five days a week and mostly starve to death in two days, consuming no more than 500 calories. in pure intermittent fasting, however, days with a normal food intake alternate with days without food.
The diet promises to shed excess pounds. Scientific studies on weight loss success sometimes come to contradictory results. Some people, though, rely on long breaks from eating to do something for their metabolic health.
In fact, several studies have suggested that intermittent fasting improves some metabolic parameters more significantly than a traditional diet that involves consuming fewer calories each day for a longer period of time.
According to the authors of the present work, other studies have shown that fasting can improve the stress resistance of stem cells in the blood, intestine and muscle tissue. However, little is known about the effects it has on peripheral tissues such as skin and hair.
Fasting causes oxidative stress
A team led by stem cell biologist Bing Zhang from China’s Westlake University now wanted to find out whether fasting could also be useful for the regeneration of these tissues,i.e. the process in which old, damaged cells are replaced. For this purpose, the researchers divided the laboratory mice into three groups: one that fasted according to the 8:16 method, the second in an alternating manner (one day the animals could eat normally and the next day they had to fast) and a third group of control that fed without restrictions.
The research team shaved all the animals and then monitored hair growth. The result: in the mice in the control group, moast of the hair had grown back after 30 days, while in the animals in the two fasting groups it had only partially grown back after 96 days.
The researchers explain their observation with a mechanism underlying fasting: when you abstain from eating for a long time, the body switches from carbohydrate metabolism to fat metabolism. This change is associated with oxidative stress that hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) cannot cope with. Though, according to the study, the stem cells of the epidermis, i.e. the epidermis, were not affected by fasting.
To test whether the findings could be transferred to humans, the research team conducted a small clinical study with 49 healthy adults. According to the study,if they fasted for 18 hours a day,hair growth decreased by 18% compared to a control group that ate normally. Though, the researchers themselves admit that the number of subjects tested is too small to make general statements. Furthermore, this part of the study lasted only ten days.
“The human population is very heterogeneous,so the effects may be different for different people,” Zhang said in a statement.“Additionally, mice have a very high metabolic rate compared to humans, so fasting and metabolic changes have a stronger effect on mouse HFSC.” a little slower than usual.
Zhang concludes: “We don’t want to discourage people from practicing intermittent fasting because it is associated with many positive effects. It’s just crucial to be aware that it could have some unintended consequences.”
Alice Lanzke/dpa/vem
What are the potential side effects of intermittent fasting?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Emily Carter: Intermittent Fasting and Its Effects on Health
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Carter! It’s a pleasure to have you here. today, we’re diving deep into the captivating world of intermittent fasting—a popular method touted for weight loss and improved health.Though, a recent study indicates that it might also slow down hair growth. Can you shed some light on this?
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! Yes, it’s a really intriguing finding. While intermittent fasting has gained popularity for its potential weight loss benefits and metabolic improvements, the study conducted in China has raised red flags regarding its impact on hair growth, especially in mice, and there are indications that similar effects could occur in humans.
Editor: How does slowing hair growth relate to the body’s stress response during such fasting periods?
Dr. Carter: Great question! Intermittent fasting can indeed be a stressor to the body. When we restrict calories or limit eating windows, it triggers adaptive responses, including hormonal changes and stress-related reactions. In the study, the researchers found that the physiological stress associated with fasting might impact the hair growth cycle by affecting the follicles directly. essentially, our body prioritizes vital functions over non-essential ones during stressful periods, which can led to slower hair growth.
Editor: That’s quite fascinating! Most people associate intermittent fasting with health benefits—does this study suggest we need to rethink our approach to it?
Dr. carter: It doesn’t necessarily mean we should abandon intermittent fasting altogether, but it highlights the importance of listening to our bodies. This rhythmic eating pattern may not suit everyone,and it’s crucial to consider individual health conditions and lifestyle factors. A careful approach may prevent potential side effects, including hair loss.
Editor: With different intermittent fasting methods, like the 16:8 or the 5:2, do you think some may be more beneficial or detrimental than others?
Dr.Carter: Absolutely, the method you choose can affect your overall well-being. The 16:8 method,which allows for a longer eating window,might potentially be less stressful than the 5:2 method,where caloric intake drastically plummets on fasting days. Each individual reacts differently, so it’s essential to find what works for your body without causing undue stress.
Editor: For those who are experiencing stress-related issues or hair loss while following intermittent fasting, what recommendations would you suggest?
Dr.Carter: First and foremost, I would recommend consulting a healthcare professional to evaluate individual dietary needs and overall health. Additionally, staying mindful of your body’s responses, maintaining nutrient-rich meals, managing stress levels through techniques like mindfulness or yoga, and perhaps taking breaks from fasting could be beneficial.
Editor: Excellent advice! Before we wrap up,what final thoughts do you have for our readers considering intermittent fasting?
Dr. carter: Intermittent fasting can be a valuable tool for many, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Balance, moderation, and personalization are key. Always prioritize holistic health over a singular method,and never hesitate to seek guidance if you have concerns about any side effects.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights into this complex topic. It’s crucial for our readers to be informed about both the benefits and potential downsides of intermittent fasting.
Dr. carter: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital subject.