Benefits

How Intermittent Fasting Reduces Inflammation

Discover how intermittent fasting fights chronic inflammation. Learn the mechanisms, research findings, and practical tips for anti-inflammatory fasting.

11 min readUpdated January 2, 2026

Chronic inflammation is linked to nearly every modern disease, from heart disease to cancer to autoimmune conditions. Intermittent fasting is a powerful tool for reducing systemic inflammation.

The Inflammation-Fasting Connection

Research shows that intermittent fasting reduces multiple markers of inflammation, including C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).

Mechanisms of Anti-Inflammatory Effects

  • Reduced oxidative stress from lower metabolic activity
  • Autophagy removes damaged, inflammatory cellular components
  • Ketones produced during fasting have anti-inflammatory properties
  • Improved insulin sensitivity reduces inflammatory signaling
  • Gut health improvements reduce systemic inflammation
Research FindingA 2019 study found that fasting reduced inflammatory markers by 40-50% compared to normal eating patterns.

Conditions That May Improve

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Inflammatory bowel conditions
  • Asthma and allergies
  • Skin conditions like eczema
  • Chronic pain syndromes
  • Cardiovascular inflammation

Related Topics

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Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any fasting regimen.

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