Researchers have just unveiled an intriguing biological mechanism that explains why intermittent fasting slows the aging process.
At the center of this discovery is spermidine, a molecule naturally present in our cells, which plays a key role in recycling cellular components, an essential process for longevity.
Led by Dr. Nektarios Tavernarakis, an international team demonstrated that intermittent fasting increases levels of spermidine in cells. This molecule activates a process called autophagy, which cleans and recycles defective parts of cells. This process is crucial for slowing aging and preventing age-related diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease.
Autophagy functions as an internal cleaning mechanism, preventing the accumulation of cellular waste that accelerates aging. By increasing spermidine levels, intermittent fasting promotes the optimal functioning of this process, which could explain its beneficial effects on health and longevity.
Researchers observed these effects in different organisms, from yeast to human cells, as well as mice. When spermidine production is blocked, the benefits of intermittent fasting disappear, confirming the importance of this molecule for maintaining cellular youth.
Credit: Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas
This study highlights that the mechanism by which spermidine regulates autophagy is present in numerous species, showing it's a fundamental process for the survival and well-being of organisms.
Thus, this discovery paves the way for new approaches to delay aging and improve the quality of life for older individuals, relying on natural cellular regulation mechanisms.