Fasting for Immune Function Study
(Meta-SHIFT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how fasting for 24 hours affects the immune system, focusing on immune cell function and energy use. During fasting, the body shifts from using carbohydrates to fat for energy, and researchers aim to understand how this shift impacts immune cells. They seek healthy individuals aged 18-40 with a normal BMI (body mass index) who are willing to fast and participate in study activities. As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity to contribute to scientific understanding of fasting and immune function.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
Yes, you must stop taking any prescribed medications, except for contraceptives, to participate in the trial.
What prior data suggests that fasting is safe for immune function studies?
Research has shown that fasting can affect the immune system both positively and negatively. Some studies suggest that fasting might lower inflammation and support the immune system by altering immune cell function. For instance, fasting can activate certain immune cells that help fight cancer. However, other studies indicate that fasting might impair the body's ability to fight infections and could increase the risk of heart disease. Fasting can also reduce certain types of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting illnesses.
Overall, while fasting offers some benefits, it also presents potential downsides. Individuals interested in fasting should consider these factors and consult a healthcare professional before joining a fasting-based clinical trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about fasting for immune function because it offers a unique, non-pharmaceutical approach to potentially boosting the immune system. Unlike standard treatments that may involve medications and supplements, fasting leverages the body's natural processes by temporarily abstaining from food, which might trigger beneficial cellular changes and enhance immune response. This method is particularly intriguing as it could offer a simple, accessible way to improve health without the need for drugs.
What evidence suggests that fasting is effective for immune function?
Research has shown that fasting, which participants in this trial will undergo, can positively affect the immune system. Studies suggest that fasting might help lower inflammation and assist immune cells in fighting infections and diseases like cancer. During fasting, immune cells may move to the bone marrow, altering how the body manages inflammation. However, some research indicates that fasting could impair infection-fighting abilities and increase certain health risks. Overall, while fasting appears promising for boosting immune health, its effects are not yet fully understood.12456
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sander Kersten, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Cornell University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy adults aged 18-40 with a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9, who are willing to fast and take part in all study activities over three days.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline
Participants consume a standardized breakfast shake and are considered in the 'fed state'. Initial blood samples and optional adipose tissue biopsy are taken.
Fasting
Participants undergo a 26-hour fasting period with only water and sugar-free tea allowed. Blood samples and optional adipose tissue biopsy are taken at 24 hours.
Refeeding
Participants consume a second standardized breakfast shake to end the fasting period. Blood samples are collected 2 hours after refeeding.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any delayed effects of fasting and refeeding on immune cell function and metabolism.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Fasting
Trial Overview
The study examines how fasting for 24 hours affects the metabolism and function of immune cells by monitoring changes in blood substances during this period.
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
26-hour fasting
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Cornell University
Lead Sponsor
Citations
When Fasting Gets Tough, the Tough Immune Cells Get Going ...
Cycles of fasting reduce autoimmunity and activate lymphocyte-dependent killing of cancer cells, but the mechanisms remain poorly understood.
Exploring the Impact of Intermittent Fasting on Vascular ...
Recent data show that fasting redistributes circulating and tissue-resident immune cells to the bone marrow, affecting their inflammatory ...
Fasting and Immune Health | The Institute for Functional ...
Explore how fasting supports immune function, reduces inflammation, and enhances gut microbiota through evidence-based nutrition strategies.
Intermittent fasting and immunomodulatory effects - PMC
IF could benefit health subjects by strengthening their circadian rhythms, migrating immune cells, lower inflammatory factors, and enriching microbials.
The immune hunger games: the effects of fasting on ...
While several studies have suggested that short-term fasting can boost immune function and protect against certain infections, the effects of ...
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mountsinai.org
mountsinai.org/about/newsroom/2023/skipping-breakfast-may-compromise-the-immune-systemSkipping Breakfast May Compromise the Immune System
Fasting may be detrimental to fighting off infection, and could lead to an increased risk of heart disease, according to a new study by the Icahn School of ...
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