The Relationship Between Autophagy, Exercise, and Fasting in Biology

In biology, most functions are not linear but can be either used or inverted. Fitness shows a direct correlation where the more fit you are, the longer you live. However, with autophagy, it follows a Goldilocks principle where the right amount is crucial. Autophagy is triggered by a reduction in nutrients, commonly achieved through fasting. The timing for optimal autophagy activation in humans is uncertain. On a cellular level, exercise induces an energy deficit that stimulates autophagy. Therefore, exercise and fasting are vital tools for enhancing autophagy. There are pharmacological interventions, but their effectiveness in humans remains uncertain.