The Intermittent Fasting Podcast #431 - Special Guest Courtney Peterson, IF Protocols, Muscle Preservation, Aging & Autophagy, Meal Timing, Hormonal Effects, Starting IF Tips, Cognitive Benefits, Diet Quality, IF Myths, Future Research, And More!
Jul 21, 2025
Courtney Peterson, a leading researcher in intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating, shares her fascinating insights on how fasting can enhance longevity and metabolic health. She discusses the impacts of meal timing and frequency on blood sugar control, and how fasting can aid muscle preservation during weight loss. Courtney also debunks common myths about intermittent fasting and emphasizes the importance of diet quality. Listeners will enjoy practical tips for starting their own fasting journey and learn about exciting future research on fasting's health benefits.
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Career Pivot To Fasting Research
- Courtney Peterson switched from physics/astrophysics to nutrition after realizing she wanted a career with direct human impact.
- She began practicing intermittent fasting around 2010 and joined a lab studying IF in 2011, launching her research career.
IF Extends Lifespan In Animals
- Animal studies show intermittent fasting extends lifespan independently of calorie reduction.
- Several studies now indicate daily intermittent fasting can be more powerful than calorie restriction for longevity in animals.
Protect Muscle: Limit Long Fast Durations
- Avoid fasting longer than ~36 hours if your goal is to preserve muscle mass.
- Train normally and follow evidence-based resistance protocols; studies show TRE up to 18 hours doesn't harm muscle or strength gains.
