In recent years, fasting diets have gained popularity among certain groups of people. Some tech bros and health influencers have opted for intermittent fasting, which involves eating only one meal a day. While these individuals claim that this diet can help with weight loss, longevity, and even cancer prevention, recent headlines have raised concerns about its potential dangers. As a journalist, I wanted to explore the science behind fasting and its impact on health.
To gain clarity on this issue, I interviewed Dr. Krista Varady and Dr. Courtney Peterson, two nutrition researchers who specialize in fasting research. We also spoke with Professor Valter Longo, a cancer researcher who has conducted extensive research on the topic. Our conversation delved into various aspects of fasting, including its effect on fat burning, weight loss, calorie restriction, longevity, and cancer prevention.
The mental health and resources for disordered eating were also discussed during our conversation. The podcast aimed to provide a balanced perspective on the topic by exploring both the benefits and potential risks associated with fasting diets.
The episode was produced by Kaitlyn Sawrey, Nick DelRose, and Wendy Zukerman with contributions from Michelle Dang, Rose Rimler, Joel Werner, and Meryl Horn. Editing was done by Blythe Terrell, Caitlin Kenney