Unraveling the impact of intermittent fasting in cancer prevention, mitigation, and treatment: A narrative review

Abstract

Intermittent fasting (IF) has emerged as a potential adjunctive strategy in cancer prevention, mitigation, and treatment. This narrative review synthesizes existing literature to explore the relationship between IF and cancer across 3 dimensions: prevention, mitigation, and treatment. We examine the underlying mechanisms by which IF may reduce cancer risk, including its effects on insulin-like growth factor 1 suppression, autophagy induction, and chronic inflammation reduction. Furthermore, we discuss IF’s potential to enhance the efficacy of conventional cancer therapies by sensitizing cancer cells, promoting apoptosis, and reducing treatment-related side effects. While promising, the evidence is still limited, and further research is required to elucidate the long-term impact and optimal implementation of IF in cancer care. This review aims to provide health care professionals and patients with a comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits and risks associated with IF as a complementary approach in the oncology setting.