What do you think?
Rate this book
The Intermittent Fasting Revolution: The Science of Optimizing Health and Enhancing Performance
How intermittent fasting can enhance resilience, improve mental and physical performance, and protect against aging and disease.Most of us eat three meals a day with a smattering of snacks because we think that’s the normal, healthy way to eat. This book shows why that’s not the case. The human body and brain evolved to function well in environments where food could be obtained only intermittently. When we look at the eating patterns of our distant ancestors, we can see that an intermittent fasting eating pattern is normal—and eating three meals a day is not. In The Intermittent Fasting Revolution, prominent neuroscientist Mark Mattson shows that intermittent fasting is not only normal but also good for us; it can enhance our ability to cope with stress by making cells more resilient. It also improves mental and physical performance and protects against aging and disease. Intermittent fasting is not the latest fad diet; it doesn’t dictate food choice or quantity. It doesn’t make money for the pharmaceutical, processed food, or health care industries. Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that includes frequent periods of time with little or negligible amounts of food. It is often accompanied by weight loss, but, Mattson says, studies show that its remarkable beneficial effects cannot be accounted for by weight loss alone.Mattson—whose pioneering research uncovered the ways that the brain responds to fasting and exercise—explains how thriving while fasting became an evolutionary adaptation. He describes the specific ways that intermittent fasting slows aging; reduces the risk of diseases, including obesity, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes; and improves both brain and body performance. He also offers practical advice on adopting an intermittent fasting eating pattern as well as information for parents and physicians.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 8, 2022
158 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 7, 2024
Always thought fasting was a bit "out there" but with my burnout came some anxiety, and I did not really have the patience to wait it out by just "resting". So I tried fasting.
I had read how ketogenic diets have helped with people mood disorders so at one point I just figured well fasting is like keto but a bit more "hardcore". Very scientific, I know.
Anyway, there is more to the story, but I think I did 16h, followed by 18h, which was followed by a 48h fast. I did the second and third fast because I noticed I was sharper in some office meetings and that I felt less anxiety. Some would say that it's simply the norephrine from starving.. which might be the case, but I don't really care what it is .. just that my quality of life improved.
So I did a longer one and I did 48 hours because I saw a graph which showed that the major changes happen in the first 48h. The first 36h was pretty amazing. My mood improved, my vision was clear, colorful and vibrant. I felt a lot of energy. I was already still fit from my active lifestyle but now I felt like I could do double the work but with half the willpower - as in normally I'd do 3 sets of 10 pushups but now I'd do 20, although I always had the physical strength, now I had excessive willpower to spend.
However, the last 12h of the 48h fast was harder I'm not sure if I was overhydrated or that I lacked electrolytes (salt basically). Either way I fucked up smth in the end because I was really tired and just thinking about food all the time :D But I persisted and the entire process really changed how I now feel and behave around food. Food has just become fuel, but not smth I need to have all the time.
The main takeaway from the book is that a lot of health problems are because of an excessive overconsumption of food (energy) and that fasting helps mitigate or prevent that.
Not eating allows the body to rest from energy intake and proceed in multiple mechanisms such as autophagy which is a process in which a cell breaks down and destroys old, damaged, or abnormal proteins and other substances in its cytoplasm (the fluid inside a cell). The breakdown products are then recycled.
Now I've kept doing 16h daily fasts (with some cheat days) for a while now and I can definitely say that this will be a steady part of my life going forward. I will keep on reading up about it because the biochemistry is multifaceted, complicated and fascinating.
I recommend you do not try this without first reading up about it. There may be multiple ways to fuck it up. Not everyone should do it including but not limited to people with type 1 diabetes and pregnant women.
I had read how ketogenic diets have helped with people mood disorders so at one point I just figured well fasting is like keto but a bit more "hardcore". Very scientific, I know.
Anyway, there is more to the story, but I think I did 16h, followed by 18h, which was followed by a 48h fast. I did the second and third fast because I noticed I was sharper in some office meetings and that I felt less anxiety. Some would say that it's simply the norephrine from starving.. which might be the case, but I don't really care what it is .. just that my quality of life improved.
So I did a longer one and I did 48 hours because I saw a graph which showed that the major changes happen in the first 48h. The first 36h was pretty amazing. My mood improved, my vision was clear, colorful and vibrant. I felt a lot of energy. I was already still fit from my active lifestyle but now I felt like I could do double the work but with half the willpower - as in normally I'd do 3 sets of 10 pushups but now I'd do 20, although I always had the physical strength, now I had excessive willpower to spend.
However, the last 12h of the 48h fast was harder I'm not sure if I was overhydrated or that I lacked electrolytes (salt basically). Either way I fucked up smth in the end because I was really tired and just thinking about food all the time :D But I persisted and the entire process really changed how I now feel and behave around food. Food has just become fuel, but not smth I need to have all the time.
The main takeaway from the book is that a lot of health problems are because of an excessive overconsumption of food (energy) and that fasting helps mitigate or prevent that.
Not eating allows the body to rest from energy intake and proceed in multiple mechanisms such as autophagy which is a process in which a cell breaks down and destroys old, damaged, or abnormal proteins and other substances in its cytoplasm (the fluid inside a cell). The breakdown products are then recycled.
Now I've kept doing 16h daily fasts (with some cheat days) for a while now and I can definitely say that this will be a steady part of my life going forward. I will keep on reading up about it because the biochemistry is multifaceted, complicated and fascinating.
I recommend you do not try this without first reading up about it. There may be multiple ways to fuck it up. Not everyone should do it including but not limited to people with type 1 diabetes and pregnant women.
September 15, 2022
Awesome read if you want to learn more about the biology of and evidence behind intermittent fasting - though, caution - it reads a bit like an extended literature review
February 27, 2022
I picked up this book after a high-risk pregnancy and having to understand and navigate gestational diabetes.
The hardest part of my experience was understanding intermittent fasting and its benefits especially when you are pregnant. This book was a great introduction and in-depth look into the benefits and science behind intermittent fasting.
Having now come out of that experience, because of this book, I am still fasting at night and in the morning but do 12 hours and this book was really helpful in achieving that. I can't recommend it enough. For some of us, it's not a fad. It's a tool to combat future type 2 diagnoses.
The hardest part of my experience was understanding intermittent fasting and its benefits especially when you are pregnant. This book was a great introduction and in-depth look into the benefits and science behind intermittent fasting.
Having now come out of that experience, because of this book, I am still fasting at night and in the morning but do 12 hours and this book was really helpful in achieving that. I can't recommend it enough. For some of us, it's not a fad. It's a tool to combat future type 2 diagnoses.
January 30, 2022
Go deep, really deep, into the science of The Intermittent Fasting Revolution.
Can time-restricted eating or alternate fasting days really cure diabetes, obesity, and possibly other diseases? The author says yes. Then he proceeds to prove his case with vast research looking at early humans, studies he has run since the 1990s, and other historical research.
The book reads like a peer-reviewed journal article expanded into book form. Do you need this information to begin intermittent fasting yourself? No, but some of the rabbit holes he goes down provide interesting information.
For example, human brains are 10% smaller now than when we were hunter-gatherers. The author attributes that to both the need to remember how to find food and the intermittent fasting when food was not found. However, I don’t think he adequately proved his case that food scarcity and fasting were the causes of the bigger brains and not just a coincidence.
People who want to know about the history and science behind fasting will enjoy the rambling intellectualism of The Intermittent Fasting Revolution. However, for someone just looking to begin intermittent fasting, there are better, more concise options. 3 stars.
Thanks to The MIT Press and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Can time-restricted eating or alternate fasting days really cure diabetes, obesity, and possibly other diseases? The author says yes. Then he proceeds to prove his case with vast research looking at early humans, studies he has run since the 1990s, and other historical research.
The book reads like a peer-reviewed journal article expanded into book form. Do you need this information to begin intermittent fasting yourself? No, but some of the rabbit holes he goes down provide interesting information.
For example, human brains are 10% smaller now than when we were hunter-gatherers. The author attributes that to both the need to remember how to find food and the intermittent fasting when food was not found. However, I don’t think he adequately proved his case that food scarcity and fasting were the causes of the bigger brains and not just a coincidence.
People who want to know about the history and science behind fasting will enjoy the rambling intellectualism of The Intermittent Fasting Revolution. However, for someone just looking to begin intermittent fasting, there are better, more concise options. 3 stars.
Thanks to The MIT Press and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 18, 2023
Gives you something to really think about
Very thought provoking can be heavy at times but persevere, well worth a read if you are really interested in how to have a good old age.
Very thought provoking can be heavy at times but persevere, well worth a read if you are really interested in how to have a good old age.
February 8, 2023
Excellent!! Loved the science based approach, and though technical, it was an easy read.
Anyone looking for a reason to start fasting as a lifestyle should read this.
Anyone looking for a reason to start fasting as a lifestyle should read this.
February 2, 2022
Having spent my childhood being forced to fast for religious reasons, the nausea, headaches, and generalized weakness automatically leaves me skeptical of its medical benefits.
But a couple of friends and family have recommended this current intermittent fasting trend. So I’m grateful to the author, MIT Press, and NetGalley for a preview of this book.
I read this book specifically with an eye towards discovering if fasting is better than just a low calorie diet, the types of food taken on a fasting stomach, how to prepare for beginning and ending a fast, fasting for beginners, and how are results measured, and so forth. I didn’t find the information I was looking for.
Its arguments assume we know what and how early man ate and that it was better than our diet. It also quotes religious practices and to me, this diet seems based on wishful speculation rather than convincing science. While I’m not convinced, it doesn’t seem inescapably dogmatic or controlling, so I don’t think it’s actually dangerous.
If you’re already doing intermittent fasting and love it, you’ll enjoy this book full of positive information.
But a couple of friends and family have recommended this current intermittent fasting trend. So I’m grateful to the author, MIT Press, and NetGalley for a preview of this book.
I read this book specifically with an eye towards discovering if fasting is better than just a low calorie diet, the types of food taken on a fasting stomach, how to prepare for beginning and ending a fast, fasting for beginners, and how are results measured, and so forth. I didn’t find the information I was looking for.
Its arguments assume we know what and how early man ate and that it was better than our diet. It also quotes religious practices and to me, this diet seems based on wishful speculation rather than convincing science. While I’m not convinced, it doesn’t seem inescapably dogmatic or controlling, so I don’t think it’s actually dangerous.
If you’re already doing intermittent fasting and love it, you’ll enjoy this book full of positive information.
February 26, 2022
Unfortunately just a pile of research paper, mostly on mice. A lot of repeatition and not enough details. The only tips I never heard before is that exercise during fast could reduce fat while increase muscle. I will give it a try.
October 25, 2023
Discover how intermittent fasting can improve health, slow down ageing, and enhance brain and body performance.
Most of us have three meals a day, interspersed with snacks. But is this conventional meal plan the right choice? The book The Intermittent Fasting Revolution by Mark P. Mattson delves deep into the science of eating patterns, challenging the prevailing notion of the ‘normal’ and ‘healthy’ way to nourish our bodies. This enlightening book underscores the fact that human physiology and cognition are intricately linked to an evolutionary history where food availability was intermittent. By unravelling the transformative potential of intermittent fasting, it illuminates how this approach can boost resilience, enhance mental and physical performance, and act as a shield against the relentless march of ageing and disease.
In this review, we will explore the pages of this book to demystify the concept of intermittent fasting and explore how it can potentially revolutionise the way we approach our health and well-being.
Author’s background
Mark P. Mattson is a distinguished Professor of Neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University and former Chief of the Laboratory of Neurosciences at the National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Aging.
He is renowned for his extensive research on intermittent fasting, recognised by the National Institute of Health as one of the world’s foremost experts on the cognitive and physical health benefits of this practice. Mattson also engages in sharing his insights through his podcast, ‘Brain Ponderings,’ where he interviews prominent neuroscientists about their lives and work.
What is the book about?
The Intermittent Fasting Revolution by Mark P. Mattson challenges our conventional eating habits and explores the benefits of intermittent fasting. Mattson delves into the evolutionary and historical perspectives on fasting, highlighting that our ancestors thrived with intermittent fasting patterns, while today’s three-meals-a-day norm is a departure from the natural order.
Structured into nine distinct chapters, the book covers various topics, including:
• The positive impact of intermittent fasting on mental and physical performance
• Protection against ageing and various diseases with intermittent fasting
• Benefits beyond weight loss: improved glucose regulation, blood lipid levels, and reduction in abdominal fat
• Safeguarding against neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and stroke through intermittent fasting
• The brain benefits of intermittent fasting: anxiety reduction, improved learning, and memory enhancement
• The scientific mechanisms behind the positive effects of intermittent fasting
• The role of a healthy diet in complementing intermittent fasting
• The impact of certain chemicals in fruits and vegetables on cell health
The Intermittent Fasting Revolution concludes with practical advice for those interested in incorporating intermittent fasting into their daily routine and offers guidance for physicians considering it as part of their patient care strategy. Overall, the book provides valuable insights into the benefits of intermittent fasting, rooted in science and evolution, with practical applications for improved health and well-being.
Three key takeaways from The Intermittent Fasting Revolution
1. Intermittent fasting slows ageing
The book presents evidence that intermittent fasting has the ability to slow down the ageing process. Researchers have extensively studied the effects of calorie restriction, a core aspect of intermittent fasting, on ageing, and have found that it can extend lifespan and reduce the burden of age-related diseases in monkeys. This extension of lifespan is associated with reduced body weight, particularly when caloric restriction counters diets high in sugar content.
Studies on humans, including the ‘calorie restriction with optimal nutrition’ (CRON) group, demonstrate that daily calorie restriction improves various cardiovascular disease risk factors, including cholesterol levels and blood sugar regulation. Intermittent fasting, even without a significant overall reduction in calorie intake, offers similar benefits.
Moreover, intermittent fasting amplifies the cell’s ability to repair DNA, a critical factor in the ageing process. DNA damage repair becomes less efficient as we age, leading to various age-related conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease. Intermittent fasting, exercise, and the protein brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) all play crucial roles in enhancing DNA repair, thereby protecting against age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
2. Intermittent fasting has the potential to combat chronic diseases
The book also provides various pieces of evidence that support the potential of intermittent fasting in the prevention and combatting of chronic diseases.
Intermittent fasting has demonstrated its ability to bolster the body’s resilience against heart attacks and strokes. Rats subjected to simulated strokes exhibited significantly less damage and better motor function when placed on an intermittent fasting regimen. Similarly, research in collaboration with cardiologist Ed Lakatta unveiled that intermittent fasting reduces heart tissue damage and enhances the function of the left ventricle following a myocardial infarction.
What is more, fasting presents a promising strategy for cancer prevention and treatment. The regimen inhibits tumour growth in various animal models and complements the existing cancer therapies. By inducing a mild adaptive stress response, it enables cells to repair damaged DNA, prevents cancer cell formation, and enhances immune cell activity against cancer cells.
There is also growing evidence that intermittent fasting has the potential to reduce the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease. However, more research is still needed.
3. Intermittent fasting amplifies brain health
Intermittent fasting offers significant benefits for brain health by virtue of its multifaceted impact on various neuronal processes. The book underscores this by highlighting several key mechanisms.
Note from Healthypedia: BDNF is a protein crucial for neuron survival and growth, it also affects how neurotransmitters work and plays a role in learning and memory. Firstly, it elucidates how intermittent fasting promotes the interplay between glutamate and BDNF, proteins that are crucial components for neuronal health. This interaction is particularly vital in the hippocampus, a region central to learning and memory. By adhering to intermittent fasting regimens, individuals can augment synapse numbers and elevate BDNF levels.
Moreover, intermittent fasting leverages the presence of stem cells in the hippocampus to stimulate neurogenesis, a process vital for brain rejuvenation and repair.
Additionally, the book highlights the role of ketones in enhancing cognition during intermittent fasting. Ketones, chemicals generated by the liver as a result of the breakdown of fats, serve as catalysts for BDNF production, thereby positively impacting mood, cognitive functions, and ameliorating various neurological disorders.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Provides a clear and comprehensive explanation of the science behind intermittent fasting, making it accessible for readers to understand the underlying principles.
• Dr. Mattson, a recognised expert in the field, lends credibility to the book’s content and recommendations, making it a reliable source.
Weaknesses:
• Readers seeking practical advice on how to make intermittent fasting easier or determine the best form of time-restricted eating may find the book lacking in specific recommendations.
Best quotes from The Intermittent Fasting Revolution
“A lifestyle characterized by three meals plus snacks every day and negligible exercise results in suboptimal brain function and increases the risk of major neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.”
“Intermittent fasting slows aging, reduces inflammation, improves glucose regulation, lowers blood pressure, facilitates fat loss, and may reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and cancers.”
“With fasting and extended exercise, liver glycogen stores are depleted, and ketones are produced from fat-cell-derived fatty acids. This metabolic switch in cellular fuel source is accompanied by molecular adaptations of cells throughout the body and brain that enhance their functionality and bolster their resistance to stress, injury, and disease.”
Final takeaway
The Intermittent Fasting Revolution by Mark P. Mattson is an enlightening exploration of the numerous health benefits associated with intermittent fasting. Dr. Mattson’s extensive research background and expertise in the field lend credibility to the book’s content, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the science behind intermittent fasting. The book offers compelling insights into how intermittent fasting can slow down the ageing process, combat chronic diseases, and amplify brain health. It serves as a comprehensive guide for readers interested in adopting intermittent fasting as a part of their lifestyle. This book is a must-read for individuals looking to enhance their well-being and make informed decisions about their health practices.
Most of us have three meals a day, interspersed with snacks. But is this conventional meal plan the right choice? The book The Intermittent Fasting Revolution by Mark P. Mattson delves deep into the science of eating patterns, challenging the prevailing notion of the ‘normal’ and ‘healthy’ way to nourish our bodies. This enlightening book underscores the fact that human physiology and cognition are intricately linked to an evolutionary history where food availability was intermittent. By unravelling the transformative potential of intermittent fasting, it illuminates how this approach can boost resilience, enhance mental and physical performance, and act as a shield against the relentless march of ageing and disease.
In this review, we will explore the pages of this book to demystify the concept of intermittent fasting and explore how it can potentially revolutionise the way we approach our health and well-being.
Author’s background
Mark P. Mattson is a distinguished Professor of Neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University and former Chief of the Laboratory of Neurosciences at the National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program of the National Institute on Aging.
He is renowned for his extensive research on intermittent fasting, recognised by the National Institute of Health as one of the world’s foremost experts on the cognitive and physical health benefits of this practice. Mattson also engages in sharing his insights through his podcast, ‘Brain Ponderings,’ where he interviews prominent neuroscientists about their lives and work.
What is the book about?
The Intermittent Fasting Revolution by Mark P. Mattson challenges our conventional eating habits and explores the benefits of intermittent fasting. Mattson delves into the evolutionary and historical perspectives on fasting, highlighting that our ancestors thrived with intermittent fasting patterns, while today’s three-meals-a-day norm is a departure from the natural order.
Structured into nine distinct chapters, the book covers various topics, including:
• The positive impact of intermittent fasting on mental and physical performance
• Protection against ageing and various diseases with intermittent fasting
• Benefits beyond weight loss: improved glucose regulation, blood lipid levels, and reduction in abdominal fat
• Safeguarding against neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and stroke through intermittent fasting
• The brain benefits of intermittent fasting: anxiety reduction, improved learning, and memory enhancement
• The scientific mechanisms behind the positive effects of intermittent fasting
• The role of a healthy diet in complementing intermittent fasting
• The impact of certain chemicals in fruits and vegetables on cell health
The Intermittent Fasting Revolution concludes with practical advice for those interested in incorporating intermittent fasting into their daily routine and offers guidance for physicians considering it as part of their patient care strategy. Overall, the book provides valuable insights into the benefits of intermittent fasting, rooted in science and evolution, with practical applications for improved health and well-being.
Three key takeaways from The Intermittent Fasting Revolution
1. Intermittent fasting slows ageing
The book presents evidence that intermittent fasting has the ability to slow down the ageing process. Researchers have extensively studied the effects of calorie restriction, a core aspect of intermittent fasting, on ageing, and have found that it can extend lifespan and reduce the burden of age-related diseases in monkeys. This extension of lifespan is associated with reduced body weight, particularly when caloric restriction counters diets high in sugar content.
Studies on humans, including the ‘calorie restriction with optimal nutrition’ (CRON) group, demonstrate that daily calorie restriction improves various cardiovascular disease risk factors, including cholesterol levels and blood sugar regulation. Intermittent fasting, even without a significant overall reduction in calorie intake, offers similar benefits.
Moreover, intermittent fasting amplifies the cell’s ability to repair DNA, a critical factor in the ageing process. DNA damage repair becomes less efficient as we age, leading to various age-related conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease. Intermittent fasting, exercise, and the protein brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) all play crucial roles in enhancing DNA repair, thereby protecting against age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
2. Intermittent fasting has the potential to combat chronic diseases
The book also provides various pieces of evidence that support the potential of intermittent fasting in the prevention and combatting of chronic diseases.
Intermittent fasting has demonstrated its ability to bolster the body’s resilience against heart attacks and strokes. Rats subjected to simulated strokes exhibited significantly less damage and better motor function when placed on an intermittent fasting regimen. Similarly, research in collaboration with cardiologist Ed Lakatta unveiled that intermittent fasting reduces heart tissue damage and enhances the function of the left ventricle following a myocardial infarction.
What is more, fasting presents a promising strategy for cancer prevention and treatment. The regimen inhibits tumour growth in various animal models and complements the existing cancer therapies. By inducing a mild adaptive stress response, it enables cells to repair damaged DNA, prevents cancer cell formation, and enhances immune cell activity against cancer cells.
There is also growing evidence that intermittent fasting has the potential to reduce the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease. However, more research is still needed.
3. Intermittent fasting amplifies brain health
Intermittent fasting offers significant benefits for brain health by virtue of its multifaceted impact on various neuronal processes. The book underscores this by highlighting several key mechanisms.
Note from Healthypedia: BDNF is a protein crucial for neuron survival and growth, it also affects how neurotransmitters work and plays a role in learning and memory. Firstly, it elucidates how intermittent fasting promotes the interplay between glutamate and BDNF, proteins that are crucial components for neuronal health. This interaction is particularly vital in the hippocampus, a region central to learning and memory. By adhering to intermittent fasting regimens, individuals can augment synapse numbers and elevate BDNF levels.
Moreover, intermittent fasting leverages the presence of stem cells in the hippocampus to stimulate neurogenesis, a process vital for brain rejuvenation and repair.
Additionally, the book highlights the role of ketones in enhancing cognition during intermittent fasting. Ketones, chemicals generated by the liver as a result of the breakdown of fats, serve as catalysts for BDNF production, thereby positively impacting mood, cognitive functions, and ameliorating various neurological disorders.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Provides a clear and comprehensive explanation of the science behind intermittent fasting, making it accessible for readers to understand the underlying principles.
• Dr. Mattson, a recognised expert in the field, lends credibility to the book’s content and recommendations, making it a reliable source.
Weaknesses:
• Readers seeking practical advice on how to make intermittent fasting easier or determine the best form of time-restricted eating may find the book lacking in specific recommendations.
Best quotes from The Intermittent Fasting Revolution
“A lifestyle characterized by three meals plus snacks every day and negligible exercise results in suboptimal brain function and increases the risk of major neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.”
“Intermittent fasting slows aging, reduces inflammation, improves glucose regulation, lowers blood pressure, facilitates fat loss, and may reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and cancers.”
“With fasting and extended exercise, liver glycogen stores are depleted, and ketones are produced from fat-cell-derived fatty acids. This metabolic switch in cellular fuel source is accompanied by molecular adaptations of cells throughout the body and brain that enhance their functionality and bolster their resistance to stress, injury, and disease.”
Final takeaway
The Intermittent Fasting Revolution by Mark P. Mattson is an enlightening exploration of the numerous health benefits associated with intermittent fasting. Dr. Mattson’s extensive research background and expertise in the field lend credibility to the book’s content, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the science behind intermittent fasting. The book offers compelling insights into how intermittent fasting can slow down the ageing process, combat chronic diseases, and amplify brain health. It serves as a comprehensive guide for readers interested in adopting intermittent fasting as a part of their lifestyle. This book is a must-read for individuals looking to enhance their well-being and make informed decisions about their health practices.
August 16, 2024
The book is a manifesto for intermittent fasting.
This could be 16 hours a day or two days in a week.
The message is clear and good. However it is reiterated ad nauseam. The language oscillates between childish and extremely technical. The diagrams are doodlings at best.
Respect the knowledge. Not the book.
This could be 16 hours a day or two days in a week.
The message is clear and good. However it is reiterated ad nauseam. The language oscillates between childish and extremely technical. The diagrams are doodlings at best.
Respect the knowledge. Not the book.
February 28, 2023
If you are not totally 100% happy with the state of your health and want to do something about it and don't think that more prescriptions are the answer then I think you could potentially benefit from reading this book. Americans in large part are eating themselves to death as evidenced by the obesity and diabetes epidemics in this country not to mention alzheizmers.
'Intermittent fasting is not a diet. A diet is what is eaten and how much is eaten."
No, your doctor is probably not going to discuss this with you, mine sure haven't.
As I write this I am 36 hours into a either a 48 or 72 hour fast - the duration depending on how I am feeling. Blood sugar this morning was 76 and no I am not a diabetic but I do like to make sure I don't become one.
We started to included fasting in our life about 6 months ago and overall like the result - especially the weight loss.
It is important to keep reminding one's self about the positive health benefits of intermittent fasting and that is why I read this book. Dr Jason Fung is another expert on intermittent fasting who has also written several books and he also has several good recordings on utube.
P.S. Several areas of this book were fairly difficult reading due to the technical nature of the discussion. If they are a bit much feel free to skim as I did in a few areas. I was not interested in hearing much about Parkinson's Disease so I read very little of that. Some areas I have read several times. So pick and choose and go for the main points and ideas.
More pills are not the answer.
'Intermittent fasting is not a diet. A diet is what is eaten and how much is eaten."
No, your doctor is probably not going to discuss this with you, mine sure haven't.
As I write this I am 36 hours into a either a 48 or 72 hour fast - the duration depending on how I am feeling. Blood sugar this morning was 76 and no I am not a diabetic but I do like to make sure I don't become one.
We started to included fasting in our life about 6 months ago and overall like the result - especially the weight loss.
It is important to keep reminding one's self about the positive health benefits of intermittent fasting and that is why I read this book. Dr Jason Fung is another expert on intermittent fasting who has also written several books and he also has several good recordings on utube.
P.S. Several areas of this book were fairly difficult reading due to the technical nature of the discussion. If they are a bit much feel free to skim as I did in a few areas. I was not interested in hearing much about Parkinson's Disease so I read very little of that. Some areas I have read several times. So pick and choose and go for the main points and ideas.
More pills are not the answer.
May 17, 2022
from a true expert in the field, evidence based
Dr Mattson presents the results of his years of research on the effects of time restricted eating (IF) on the major health concerns of our era, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s . This simple and free process, IF, coupled with exercise , and mental challenge, offer cures for the afflicted and avoidance for the early adopter’s. Truly a revolution.
Dr Mattson presents the results of his years of research on the effects of time restricted eating (IF) on the major health concerns of our era, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s . This simple and free process, IF, coupled with exercise , and mental challenge, offer cures for the afflicted and avoidance for the early adopter’s. Truly a revolution.
September 25, 2021
This book takes an empathetic approach and gives bite size approaches and allows you to have kindness and patience with yourself when dealing with life. This is so necessary for everyone to read in life. Highly recommend. Especially loved the reflection to true life to humanize my feelings and relate. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2023
Phenomenal book by Neuroscientist Mark P. Mattson about the scientific evidence that intermittent fasting produces many benefits to the human body. This book is chock full of nerdy medical terms and studies. I think it could be somewhat confusing to those without a medical background, but overall it is a thorough and concise convincing argument that intermittent fasting is a quick, easy, and FREE way to boost your metabolic health and lose weight.
He begins by explaining how food scarcity in the past sculpted the human body. We weren't designed to have so many high calorie foods at our fingertips at all times. This has actually produced detrimental and deadly results for humans. Next he dissects how intermittent fasting slows the aging process and improves alertness and mental clarity. He asserts that it can actually reverse or prevent parkinson's disease and alzheimers. He covers other topics such as disease prevention and treatment, balancing body and brain performance, hijacking ketones in the body for weight loss, diet composition and brain health, and many other areas are explored. He ends the book with actual graphs and tables of sample prescriptions doctors should be giving to diabetics, cancer patients, and obese people with very detailed explanations of how to begin and then slowly increase the IF lifestyle to help combat disease and illness.
Of particular interest to me as a physical therapist with a background of working with autistic children, was his assertion that maternal over nourishing (obese mothers) could be playing a huge factor in the rise of autism among children today. Wow! He backs this up with convincing evidence.
Great book! Highly recommend. It convinced me to adopt the IF lifestyle and I'm already noticing many changes in just 2 months, such as over 7 pounds weight loss, greatly improved energy, and much deeper sleep.
He begins by explaining how food scarcity in the past sculpted the human body. We weren't designed to have so many high calorie foods at our fingertips at all times. This has actually produced detrimental and deadly results for humans. Next he dissects how intermittent fasting slows the aging process and improves alertness and mental clarity. He asserts that it can actually reverse or prevent parkinson's disease and alzheimers. He covers other topics such as disease prevention and treatment, balancing body and brain performance, hijacking ketones in the body for weight loss, diet composition and brain health, and many other areas are explored. He ends the book with actual graphs and tables of sample prescriptions doctors should be giving to diabetics, cancer patients, and obese people with very detailed explanations of how to begin and then slowly increase the IF lifestyle to help combat disease and illness.
Of particular interest to me as a physical therapist with a background of working with autistic children, was his assertion that maternal over nourishing (obese mothers) could be playing a huge factor in the rise of autism among children today. Wow! He backs this up with convincing evidence.
Great book! Highly recommend. It convinced me to adopt the IF lifestyle and I'm already noticing many changes in just 2 months, such as over 7 pounds weight loss, greatly improved energy, and much deeper sleep.
February 5, 2023
The title of this book is not correctly labelled, it should be titled, "Brain Health: How intermittent fasting and other strategies can improve cognition." It is a book on brain health (the author is a brain researcher) which includes some chapters on intermittent fasting. But it also has several chapters that talk only about brain health and do not mention IF at all.
Overall, some good research on IF and impacts on health, although brain health and cognition are primarily discussed. There is some mention of other aspects of health such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Rather disappointed by the author deceiving the readers that the book is all about IF.
Flagged for containing gender-biased language (e.g., "man-made").
Overall, some good research on IF and impacts on health, although brain health and cognition are primarily discussed. There is some mention of other aspects of health such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Rather disappointed by the author deceiving the readers that the book is all about IF.
Flagged for containing gender-biased language (e.g., "man-made").
August 22, 2023
Perfect book for someone interested in biology and neuroscience. The author unveiled the science behind intermittent fasting with historical and the newest research summaries. Maybe intermittent fasting is not for everybody’s lifestyle, but I believe it is crucial for the current population to know the science of it. Great touch on the future of humanity in the last chapter. The author truly cares about the public health and the wellbeing of people. However the book lacks the physiological analysis of the current habits of diet, because as humans nothing is ever only natural, it is also cultural.
April 9, 2023
If you want to read a book about Intermittent Fasting and the actual SCIENCE behind it (not just claims from celebrity writers) , then this is a great book. It provides compelling evidence that IF is biologically and evolutionarily appropriate and normal for humans. It also touches on the commercialization of some studies...the quick fix to take a supplement that provides similar benefits to IF....but as he points out, IF is cheaper and frees up time and money and is accessible to anyone who wants to try it.
June 28, 2023
good on fasting not so good on nutrition advice
Quite a lot of good info on fasting. However after saying that our ancestors ate mostly meat, the author then goes on to say that meat is bad, and causes cancer there is absolutely no evidence that meat is bad for you, or that it causes cancer. If this were the case we would not have survived as a species.
Quite a lot of good info on fasting. However after saying that our ancestors ate mostly meat, the author then goes on to say that meat is bad, and causes cancer there is absolutely no evidence that meat is bad for you, or that it causes cancer. If this were the case we would not have survived as a species.
August 4, 2022
Found it a bit dense and hard to read. Mostly skimmed it as I heard the author interviewed on a podcast and it was same information. Enjoyed the podcast much more.
Still, for someone looking for all the scientific studies to back intermittent fasting I recommend this book.
Still, for someone looking for all the scientific studies to back intermittent fasting I recommend this book.
August 15, 2022
Honestly one of the best books I've ever read about science/diet.
Everything is backed up with solid research and evidence, it makes sense, informative and fun to read if you are interested in how the body works.
Tried it on myself and my god the health benefits of fasting is incredible.
Everything is backed up with solid research and evidence, it makes sense, informative and fun to read if you are interested in how the body works.
Tried it on myself and my god the health benefits of fasting is incredible.
August 28, 2022
Great book about the science of intermittent fasting of one of the pioneers of the fasting world. Quick read at least for me but it was very sciency at some parts explaining mechanistic and biochemical pathways. In summary great and important read !
October 24, 2022
excellent read
Mark helps explain the neurological biochemical effects of intermittent fasting, which further educates and encourages me to continue with the fasting, not as a fad diet, but a genuine road to greater health as I age.
Mark helps explain the neurological biochemical effects of intermittent fasting, which further educates and encourages me to continue with the fasting, not as a fad diet, but a genuine road to greater health as I age.
January 22, 2023
Skim read the second half of this book. The title includes science and that is exactly what this book is 95% about. Not much included about practical applications related to IF. If you are looking for the science behind IF recommendations this is your book, but otherwise I’d probably skip it.
March 27, 2024
This book helps you to understand intermittent fasting in more detail. It has more scientific information. My recommendation is if you really interested to know more scientific data and evidence only read this book. It will help you to stick with IF program.
May 11, 2025
I tend to disagree with or at least question anybody who thinks they know exactly what everybody should eat (this one isn't too preachy), but I find the deep dive science behind intermittent fasting fascinating.
November 7, 2025
Nice short book on fasting. If you need some hard science to convince you, this book might be for you. I’m still convinced this is the secret answer to health, especially because it’s so hard to get people to do it.
February 15, 2022
Flipped a few pages as being too sciency but for the most part a good dive into the science for non scientists. Make sense?
November 16, 2022
4.5. Not what I expected but pleasantly surprised. A bit academic but good read (pun intended) nonetheless.
February 6, 2023
Some fascinating info on how intermittent fasting can change your health outcomes, but it is very technically written. If you don’t know or care for medical terminology you’ll probably hate it.
February 19, 2023
Fine book but should have been a blog. IF helps with everything. Eat healthy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews