The Potential Role of Intermittent Fasting as a Supportive Therapy in Cancer Treatment

1. Abstract Title The Potential Role of Intermittent Fasting as a Supportive Therapy in Cancer Treatment Author Name and Affiliation John SmithDepartment of Pharmacology, J.K.K. Nataraja College of Pharmacy,Kumarapalayam – 638183, Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India Email: [email protected] 2. Keywords cancer, intermittent fasting, fasting-mimicking diet, chemotherapy, autophagy, differential stress resistance, insulin-like growth factor, quality of life, supportive therapy, oncology 3. Introduction Abstract Background: Cancer remains one of the leading global health burdens, with current treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy often limited by toxicity and side effects. As a result, supportive therapies that can improve treatment efficacy and patient outcomes are increasingly being explored. Objective: This review evaluates current evidence on the role of intermittent fasting (IF) and fasting-mimicking diets (FMDs) as supportive interventions during cancer treatment. It explores their biological mechanisms, potential to reduce treatment-related side effects, and impact on patient quality of life. Methods: We analyzed 16 peer-reviewed articles, including clinical trials and preclinical studies, that investigated the effects of IF and FMDs on cancer outcomes. Key topics examined include metabolic regulation, insulin sensitivity, autophagy, immune modulation, and chemotherapy response. Results: Preclinical data consistently show that IF and FMDs reduce tumor progression and enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy, partly by promoting differential stress resistance and autophagy. Clinical studies, though still limited, suggest that short-term fasting may be safe, well-tolerated, and effective in reducing fatigue, gastrointestinal side effects, and biomarkers such as IGF-1. However, the risk of malnutrition and lack of standardized protocols remain challenges. Conclusion: IF shows strong potential as a complementary strategy in oncology. While initial findings are encouraging, further large-scale, well-controlled human trials are needed to establish safety, efficacy, and personalized protocols suitable for integration with conventional cancer therapies. Keywords: cancer; intermittent fasting; fasting-mimicking diet; chemotherapy; autophagy; differential stress resistance; insulin-like growth factor; Quality of life; supportive therapy; oncology.