Intermittent fasting and alternate-day fasting could help decrease blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance but may affect males and females differently.
Some studies have found that fasting could decrease several markers of inflammation and may be useful in treating inflammatory conditions, such as multiple sclerosis.
Fasting has been associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease and may help lower blood pressure, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels.
Animal studies show that fasting could improve brain function, increase nerve cell synthesis, and protect against neurodegenerative conditions.
Fasting may increase metabolism and help reduce body weight and body fat.
Studies show that fasting can increase levels of human growth hormone (HGH), an important protein hormone that plays a role in growth, metabolism, weight loss.
Animal studies have found that fasting could delay aging and increase longevity, but human research is still lacking.
Some animal and test-tube studies suggest that fasting could block tumor development and increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy.