Fasting for Crohn's?
Intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating have become major areas of research because they may influence metabolism, inflammation, and digestive health beyond simple calorie reduction. One of the most common approaches is 16:8 intermittent fasting, where food is consumed during an 8-hour window and fasting occurs for the remaining 16 hours. Emerging studies suggest this eating pattern may help improve symptoms in some people with Crohn's disease, including reduced abdominal pain and fewer bowel movements, particularly among individuals who are overweight. Researchers believe these benefits may be related to improvements in circadian rhythm alignment, gut microbiome diversity, and metabolic health, rather than weight loss alone.
Scientists are also studying whether meal timing can benefit people without digestive disorders. Time-restricted eating has been associated with improvements in blood sugar regulation, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and other markers of metabolic health. While research continues to evolve, these findings suggest that when you eat may be almost as important as what you eat for supporting overall wellness.
Another area receiving significant attention is autophagy, the body's natural cellular recycling process. During periods of fasting, the body begins breaking down damaged or unnecessary cellular components so they can be reused or removed. Researchers believe this process may support healthy aging, cellular resilience, and metabolic function, although much of the evidence is still emerging and additional human studies are needed to better understand its long-term effects.
Fasting-mimicking diets are also being investigated for chronic diseases beyond digestive health. Early research in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) suggests that combining a carefully designed, low-sodium eating pattern with time-restricted eating may improve kidney function, reduce protein in the urine, and lower markers of inflammation over several months. Because the kidneys help regulate blood pressure, fluid balance, hormone signaling, and metabolic function, supporting kidney health may have widespread effects throughout the body. Scientists continue to explore how nutrition, meal timing, and physical activity influence these interconnected systems.
Our Evolving Understanding of Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is another topic where scientific understanding continues to evolve. While preventing sunburn remains important, researchers are increasingly examining the balance between adequate sunlight for vitamin D production and protection from excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Some observational studies have reported associations between sunscreen use and skin cancer risk, but these findings do not establish that sunscreen causes cancer because many other factors, including lifetime sun exposure and individual risk behaviors, can influence the results. Researchers are also evaluating the absorption and long-term safety of certain chemical sunscreen ingredients while newer UV filters continue to become available in different parts of the world.
Choosing an appropriate sunscreen involves considering more than just SPF. Broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, the stability of active ingredients, skin sensitivity, and overall sun exposure habits all play important roles. For many people, combining sunscreen with protective clothing, shade, and avoiding prolonged midday sun exposure offers the most balanced approach.
Are You A Mosquito Magnet?
Mosquitoes are attracted by biological factors rather than the popular myth of having "sweet blood." Research has found that mosquitoes are more likely to target people who produce higher amounts of carbon dioxide, generate more body heat, or have specific skin bacteria that produce attractive odors. Other factors associated with increased mosquito attraction include pregnancy, dark-colored clothing, alcohol consumption, and certain foods, although some dietary associations require additional research.
The most effective ways to reduce mosquito bites include eliminating standing water around the home, wearing long sleeves and pants when practical, using fans to disrupt mosquito flight, and applying EPA-registered insect repellents according to label directions. Permethrin-treated clothing provides additional protection in high-risk areas. Some preliminary studies have also investigated plant-based compounds such as patchouli oil, which may temporarily reduce mosquito attraction by masking skin odors. However, essential oils can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with eczema or fragrance sensitivities, and generally provide shorter-lasting protection than conventional repellents.
Across all of these areas—from intermittent fasting and metabolic health to sun exposure and mosquito prevention—the research points to a common theme: everyday lifestyle choices can influence multiple systems throughout the body. Staying informed, evaluating new evidence carefully, and making practical, sustainable habits based on your individual needs remain the foundation of long-term health.
