Abstract:

Intermittent fasting（IF）as a periodic energy restriction，has been shown to provide metabolic and immune benefits equivalent to prolonged fasting or calorie restriction in enhancing glucose homeostasis，decreasing fat and weight，and cutting down chronic low⁃grade inflammation in obese individuals. It is expected to be a more acceptable dietary intervention method for obese patients by virtue of its better tolerance and compliance. Studies have indicated that the IF⁃mediated metabolic benefits are attributable in large part to the regulation of pancreatic β⁃cell function and the browning of white adipose tissue（WAT）. What counts is that both autophagy pathway and gut microbiota play a significant role. Furthermore，the amelioration of metabolism and the regulation of immune⁃ related gene expression are also crucial to IF⁃mediated immune benefits. By combining the aforesaid mechanisms， this paper reviews the role of IF in the prevention and treatment of obesity from the three aspects，namely glucose metabolism，lipid metabolism and immunity，in the hope of providing novel insights into lifestyle intervention and clinical application on obesity and related metabolic diseases.

Key words: