The Protective Effects of Ramadan Fasting against Cancer: Exploring Metabolic, Cellular, and Epigenetic Mechanisms

Abstract

Fasting, particularly the fasting during Ramadan, is becoming very common due to the potential health benefits of which it is inclusive of its anti-cancer properties as well as therapy. It is mentioned in a recent study that intermittent fasting, as during Ramadan, induces some alterations in the metabolism, physiology, and epigenetics, which could suppress cancer growth. The problem that this study seeks to address is the deficiency of scientific honesty and transparency in explaining the mechanisms by which Ramadan fasting affects cancer development and treatment response. The research seeks to systematically update the literature to evaluate the protective mechanisms of Ramadan fasting against cancer progression based on scientific transparency. The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines for executing sound and transparent reporting. The key findings are that fasting controls metabolism towards increased production of ketone bodies, reduced availability of glucose, and reduced levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)—vital modulators of cancer cell growth. Also, fasting increases the DNA damage response (DDR), stimulates cellular homeostasis through autophagy, and decreases oxidative stress, thereby inhibiting malignant transformation. Epigenetically, fasting regulates non-coding RNAs, DNA methylation, and histone modification, which act to activate tumor suppressor genes and silence oncogenes. The most significant finding is that Ramadan fasting is of immense potential as an adjuvant intervention in cancer therapy. These findings have crucial implications for integrative oncology practice, dietary intervention, and public health policy in the integrative oncology setting.