By:
Louis A. Cona, MD
Reviewed:
Robert J. Hancock
Although it has been long known that a lower caloric diet contributes to longevity in humans, it is now understood that fasting can switch the metabolism from using glucose as fuel to using fatty acids. This shift seems to trigger our stem cells to become more active and regenerative.
Prolonged fasting, ranging from 48 to 120 hours, has been shown to activate pathways that increase cellular resistance to toxins and stress, potentially enhancing stem cell regeneration in both mice and humans.
This intriguing connection between fasting and stem cell activity, backed by scientific studies, suggests a promising avenue for enhancing immune system regulation and cellular rejuvenation.
Fasting and Stem Cells
Prolonged fasting between 48–120 hours can activate pathways that enhance cellular resistance to toxins and stress in mice and humans. (1). A 2014 study found that prolonged fasting between 48–120 hours can activate pathways that enhance cellular resistance to toxins and stress in mice and humans. The study also found that fasting may also be linked to increased immune system regulation. (1)
A study conducted by Chang et al. states that:
"Multiple cycles of fasting decreased the immunosuppression and mortality caused by chemotherapy, and reversed age-dependent myeloid-bias (cell regeneration deficiencies) in mice, in agreement with preliminary data on the protection of white blood cells from chemotoxicity in fasting patients." (1)
What is fasting?
Fasting involves refraining from eating for an extended amount of time. Typically, to see any cellular benefits, one must fast for a minimum of 24 - 48 hours. During a fasting period, a person should not consume any calories but may continuously drink water, caffeine-free coffee, or tea to remain hydrated. One should always consult their doctor before starting a fasting program.
Fasting for stem cell production
Another study conducted by researchers at MIT revealed that stem cells drastically increased their rate of regeneration when the subject was in a "fasted state." More specifically, stem cells extracted after the fasting period and cultured showed a double in their regenerative capacity, meaning the stem cells could proliferate into higher numbers with greater efficiency. This discovery was found in both aged and young subjects equally. These results were recorded after a fasting period of only 24 hours.
For many decades, scientists have known that low caloric intake is linked with enhanced longevity in humans and other organisms. The researchers at MIT were interested in exploring how fasting exerts its effects at the molecular level, specifically in the intestine.
By applying these findings to cellular therapy protocols, patients can drastically increase the potential benefit.
The Concept of Autophagy
Autophagy, a crucial cellular process for maintaining cell functions and adapting to stress, is central to the concept of a 7-day fast. This fasting method aims to induce autophagy by shifting the body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of glucose. The metabolic change is believed to initiate the autophagy process.
Research on Cell Repair and Regeneration
Various studies provide insights into cell repair and regeneration, though they primarily focus on specific treatments or conditions such as laser irradiation, probiotics, and certain drugs for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). These studies, while not directly addressing a 7-day fast, offer valuable context for understanding cell repair mechanisms under different conditions.
Fasting Duration and Individual Variability
The effectiveness of fasting in promoting autophagy and enhancing cell repair varies greatly depending on individual circumstances. The specific duration of fasting required to achieve these benefits is not one-size-fits-all. Additionally, prolonged fasting should be undertaken carefully, under medical supervision, particularly for individuals with specific health conditions or nutritional needs.
The role nutrition plays in inflammation
The role of nutrition in stem cell treatment lies with inflammation. Most human diseases are caused, in one form or another, by inflammation in the body. By altering diet and nutrition, patients may be able to naturally reduce inflammation in the body, allowing their naturally occurring or transplanted stem cells to operate normally without restriction.
More specifically, three anti-inflammatory antioxidants, ECGC (found in green tea), Curcumin (found in turmeric), and Sulforaphane (found in broccoli), are particularly useful. These specific compounds have shown to inhibit T-cell response in the body, the white blood cells that cause some autoimmune disorders.
A recent study conducted by Colorado-based stem cell lab, Vitro Biopharma Inc, quantified the effectiveness of these compounds on stem cell activation. The study showed a stem cell response of over 25 times that of stem cells not given the compounds. (3)
Stem cell "fast" facts
We all have stem cells in our bodies from birth, working continuously to find inflammation, damage, and diseased tissues to repair. Stem cells reproduce in the body, but they also age as we age, becoming less effective with each new generation of cells. Over time, stem cell numbers decrease, and their potency eventually wears off, this is the normal aging process for all humans. However, there are ways to both promote and deter the stem cells in the body based on one's diet and living habits.
How to increase natural stem cell production
Learn how to regenerate cells faster - it long known that a lower caloric diet contributes to longevity in humans, it is now understood that fasting can switch the metabolism from using glucose as fuel to using fatty acids.
This shift seems to trigger our stem cells to become more active and regenerative. This concept has also become the basis for the now popular Keto Diet.
Although modern stem cell therapy seeks to supplement additional stem cells, we all have a supply of them already functioning in our bodies. Research has shown multiple methods to take full advantage of our stem cells and make them work more efficiently to heal our bodies. The main strategies to unlock the full potential of our stem cells are fasting and proper nutrition.
Supplements to increase stem cell production
There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of supplements to increase stem cell production in the body. Some supplements that have been proposed for this purpose include:
Resveratrol: This polyphenol, found in grapes, wine, and some plants, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may stimulate the production of stem cells in the bone marrow.
Coenzyme Q10: This nutrient is involved in energy production in the body and has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have suggested that it may stimulate the production of stem cells in the bone marrow.
Curcumin: This compound, found in the spice turmeric, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may stimulate the production of stem cells in the bone marrow.
Quercetin: This plant flavonoid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may stimulate the production of stem cells in the bone marrow.
Vitamin D: This nutrient, which is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight, has been shown to stimulate the production of stem cells in the bone marrow.
It is important to note that the use of supplements should be approached with caution, as they can interact with medications and may have side effects. If you are considering the use of supplements to increase stem cell production, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider and to carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits.
DVC Stem
DVC Stem is a stem cell therapy pioneer, offering stem cell therapies for years and has become a cornerstone of the medical tourism industry. Located in the tropical paradise of Grand Cayman in the Western Caribbean, we offer patients a nearby alternative to traveling long distances and to less ideal locations.
Our protocols are IRB approved, and our cells come from regulated, U.S. based, FDA compliant laboratories. Find out if you are a candidate for stem cell therapy here
References:
(1) Cheng, C., Adams, G., Perin, L., Wei, M., Zhou, X., Lam, B., . . . Longo, V. (2014, June 5). Prolonged fasting reduces IGF-1/PKA to promote hematopoietic-stem-cell-based regeneration and reverse immunosuppression. Retrieved August 24, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4102383/
(2) Anne Trafton | MIT News Office. (n.d.). Fasting boosts stem cells' regenerative capacity. Retrieved August 24, 2020, from https://news.mit.edu/2018/fasting-boosts-stem-cells-regenerative-capacity-0503
(3) Tonrey, T., Musick, J., Ph. D, Dean, R., & Patel, K. (n.d.). Stem Cell Activation by Natural Products. Retrieved from https://vitrobiopharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Stem-cell-activation-by-natural-substances-white-paper-1.pdf
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