210. Is fasting worth it? With Georgi Dinkov

Fasting Risks

Paul Saladino and Georgi Dinkov discuss the potential downsides of fasting, highlighting that extended fasting may not be necessary for autophagy. Paul points out that even a ten-hour fast overnight can trigger autophagy, questioning the need for prolonged fasting periods. Georgi adds that excessive autophagy could lead to negative effects, such as cardiac remodeling and even precancerous conditions 1.

There are several trials now where they're basically using drugs that block autophagy, and they're hoping to stop the developments of some. I think it was mostly of the gastrointestinal tract.

--- Georgi Dinkov

They also discuss how fasting can be a desperate measure for those who have made poor dietary choices, suggesting that other methods like reducing resistant starches can achieve similar benefits 2.

   

Autophagy

The conversation shifts to the mechanisms of autophagy and its health implications. Georgi explains that certain sugars like sucrose and fructose can trigger autophagy without the need for fasting. He emphasizes that while fasting initially increases autophagy, the long-term effects are not well understood 3.

In the first 6 hours of fasting, the autophagy rates are greatly increased. But what happens afterwards?

--- Georgi Dinkov

Paul and Georgi also touch on the role of gut health in inflammation and aging, noting that activated charcoal can help maintain muscle mass and reduce endotoxin levels 4.

   

Balancing

Balancing autophagy through diet and lifestyle is another key topic. Paul questions the necessity of extensive fasting for optimal autophagy, suggesting that the process is more complex than commonly understood. Georgi agrees, noting that the benefits of fasting often stem from reduced endotoxin levels rather than prolonged fasting itself 5.

The benefits of fasting that I've seen for people actually to benefit from the fasting are people who really had very high endotoxin response.

--- Georgi Dinkov

They also discuss the importance of hormone balance, particularly the cortisol to DHEA ratio, in determining the suitability of fasting for an individual 6.