Improvement of metabolic parameters in healthy older adult men following a fasting calorie restriction intervention

Aging Male. 2013 Dec;16(4):177-83. doi: 10.3109/13685538.2013.832191. Epub 2013 Sep 17.

Abstract

Objective: Calorie restriction and intermittent fasting are two dietary interventions that can improve aging. Religious fasting also suggested having similar benefit; however, such studies are still scarce. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of fasting calorie restriction (FCR) on metabolic parameters and DNA damage among healthy older adult men.

Methods: A randomized controlled study was done on men, aged 50-70 years in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Subjects were divided into two groups; FCR (reduction of 300-500 kcal/d combined with 2 days/week of Muslim Sunnah Fasting) and control. Assessment was ascertained at three time point; baseline, weeks 6 and 12. Blood samples were analyzed for lipid profile, DNA damage and malondialdehyde (MDA).

Results: The FCR group reduced their energy intake for approximately 18% upon completion of the study. A significant interaction effect was found in body weight, body mass index, fat percentage, fat mass, blood pressure, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and the ratio of total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.05). A significant improvement (p < 0.001) in total DNA rejoining cells and MDA (p < 0.05) was also observed in the FCR group.

Conclusion: FCR improved metabolic parameters and DNA damage in healthy older adult men. Therefore, there is a need to further examine the mechanism of FCR.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Blood Pressure
  • Body Composition / physiology
  • Body Mass Index
  • Caloric Restriction / methods*
  • DNA Damage
  • Fasting / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Lipid Metabolism
  • Lipoproteins, HDL / blood*
  • Malaysia
  • Male
  • Malondialdehyde / blood*
  • Middle Aged
  • Obesity* / diagnosis
  • Obesity* / drug therapy
  • Obesity* / metabolism
  • Obesity* / physiopathology
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Lipoproteins, HDL
  • Malondialdehyde