An overview of the clinical effects of fasting on chemotherapy outcomes :
Current evidence
Associate Professor Teresa Mitchell-Paterson | PhD Candidate , MHlthSc ( HumanNutrition ), BHlthSc ( CompMed ), ADVDIP ( Naturopathy ). Senior Lecturer Torrens Health Faculty , Torrens University
Abstract
Cancer therapy seeks to restrain malignant cell growth , with the majority of dietary interventions targeting a reduction of cachexia , a condition linked to poor prognosis . However , recent research suggests these methods are outdated in certain cancer types , where weight stability or gain may occur during treatment . Integration of complementary approaches such as fasting , fasting mimicking diets ( FMDs , also known as caloric restriction ( CR )), and time-restricted feeding ( TRF ) into cancer treatment strategies is gaining attention for potentially enhancing chemotherapy efficacy while reducing adverse effects . This overview evaluates existing literature on ongoing clinical trials , animal studies and potential fasting benefits , clinical applications , and research gaps regarding chemotherapy outcomes and quality of life ( QoL ). Fasting triggers differential stress resistance ( DSR ) and shields normal cells while sensitising cancer cells to chemotherapy , and protecting cells from chemotherapy toxicity while enhancing QoL , and potentially prognosis . Fasting modulates blood glucose levels , oxidative stress , tumour expansion , and inflammation , and promotes autophagy , underpinning the focus on adopting fasting along with traditional medical intervention . It is agreed that if this line of therapy is adopted it is vital that clinical team involvement is sought to assess patient suitability , safety , and compatibility with chemotherapy , particularly in cachexic patients . Further research in human studies is required to validate fasting ' s benefits and to establish reliable endpoints .
Introduction
Cancer therapy encompasses a multitude of treatments directed at reducing or diminishing the growth of malignant cells in the body . Standard treatment recommendations during chemotherapy feeding are aimed at reducing weight loss ( cachexia ), which in cancer patients is associated with poor immunity and reduced prognosis and survival . However , emerging research suggests that the current recommendations may be outdated , particularly in prostate , ovarian and breast cancers , where there is a low risk of weight loss during and after treatment , but a potential for weight gain [ 1 ].
The integration of complementary ( naturopathic ) approaches such as fasting , fasting mimicking diets ( FMDs ), which are also known as partial calorie restriction ( CR ), and time-restricted feeding ( TRF ), also known as intermittent fasting , into cancer treatment strategies has garnered considerable attention in recent years . These interventions hold promise for enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapy while potentially mitigating its adverse effects .
82 | vol30 | no2 | JATMS