3 Ways Intermittent Fasting May Benefit Seniors
Intermittent fasting is a popular health trend that many people follow. They may rely on it to improve their general well-being or to lose weight. Studies have found that it could potentially even delay the aging process. The process involves eating according to a specific pattern within a certain timeframe each day, alternating with fasting. Even seniors who receive home care may benefit from this lifestyle choice. Here are three reasons it could be helpful.
How Intermittent Fasting Helps Seniors
1. Improves Heart Health
Intermittent fasting may positively affect LDL cholesterol or the “bad” cholesterol in the blood. Some theories suggest that this could be due to how the body metabolizes cholesterol during the fasting period. Eating only at certain times of the day may help the body process sugar more efficiently, minimizing the risk of weight gain and potentially helping the person avoid diabetes at the same time. Since these are both risk factors for developing heart disease, intermittent fasting may help seniors support their cardiovascular health.
2. Improves Sleep
If you provide home care for a senior loved one, you may notice they have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Some research indicates that eating intermittently may improve their circadian rhythm, responsible for regulating sleep cycles. People who fast may even feel more energetic during the day, primarily because of increased orexin-A production in the body. This neurotransmitter plays a vital role in helping people stay awake. The more active they feel during the day, the more likely they are to feel tired and ready to rest at night.
3. Supports Brain Health
Many believe that intermittent fasting supports cognitive health. A study found that mice who ate intermittently learned and remembered information better than mice who ate freely. Fasting also increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain. Higher levels of BDNF are linked to the growth of new brain cells, a process known as neurogenesis. Since aging naturally decreases BDNF production, fasting may reverse the effect, making learning and retaining memories easier.
If you think your aging loved one could benefit from intermittent fasting, a home care attendant from Harmony In-Home Healthcare Inc can help ensure they maintain the desired eating and fasting schedule. Proudly serving clients throughout St. Louis, MO, and surrounding areas, they offer comprehensive adult home care services and assistance, from doing the laundry to preparing meals. Visit the website to find out more about how they can help, or call (314) 752-4444 to schedule a consultation.
