Jonathan Wolff introduces the topic of how fasting affects energy and mood, and introduces guest Sarah Berry, a top nutritional scientist.
Dr. Sarah Berry discusses the ZOE predict studies and how they have looked at the relationship between food, fasting, energy, alertness, and mood at an unprecedented scale.
Food impacts our energy and mood through changes in circulation and hormones, affecting mood, energy, and alertness.
Fasting methods include time-restricted and 5-2, with the latter being described as more sustainable.
Eating highly processed foods or refined carbohydrates can cause dips in blood sugar, leading to irritability and agitation.
Research shows that switching from a highly processed Western diet to a Mediterranean or minimally processed diet can significantly improve mood and energy levels in all age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults.
Fasting alone is believed by some to improve mood and energy levels, with early evidence suggesting cognitive benefits as we age and potential reduction in symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. It may also boost memory by increasing new brain cell production.
Dr. Sarah Berry mentions that intermittent fasting may lead to improved energy levels, better sleep, and enhanced mood, but this hasn't been studied at a population level yet.
Jonathan Wolff highlights that energy and mood are influenced by the quality of food consumed and that being 'hangry' is a result of unstable blood sugar caused by unsuitable foods.
The episode promotes The Big If Study, the largest clinical study on intermittent fasting's impact on mood, energy, and hunger, aiming to determine if intermittent fasting truly enhances mood and energy.