In this study researchers analysed whole human blood, plasma and red blood cells drawn from people who were fasting. The researchers monitored changing levels of metabolites in the blood. Metabolites are substances formed as by-products of the normal chemical processes of living.
The results found 44 metabolites, including 30 that were previously unknown, that increased among all subjects by between 1.5 and 60 times within just 58 hours of fasting. Previous research has identified various metabolites whose quantities decline with age, including three known as leucine, isoleucine and ophthalmic acid. In fasting individuals, these metabolites increase in level, suggesting a mechanism by which fasting could help increase longevity. These metabolites help maintain muscle and boost antioxidant activity, which may be behind the possibly rejuvenating effect of fasting (anti-aging). Fasting also appeared to enhance the metabolism of purines and pyrimidines, substances that play key roles in gene expression and protein synthesis, thus altering cell function.
Source: Scientific Reports
