Intermittent Fasting and Brain Function: Debunking Myths and Confirming Safety

A comprehensive review of over 70 studies shows that short-term fasting (8-24 hours) has minimal impact on adult brain functions like attention, memory, and reasoning, indicating resilience in healthy adults, though children and teens may be more affected by skipping breakfast. Timing and context influence effects, with food cues and later in the day slightly impairing performance. The brain compensates during fasting by producing ketones, which support cognitive function.