An Overview of ProLon and Intermittent Fasting for Rheumatoid Arthritis
ProLon is a commercially available 5-day fasting mimicking diet developed by Dr. Valter Longo. It contains proprietary micronutrient mixes and plant-based soups, bars, olives, drinks and snacks that are very low in calories, carbohydrates and protein.
The diet aims to achieve the benefits of water fasting while still providing moderate nourishment by activating cellular recycling processes. ProLon claims to support healthy inflammation levels, immune system function, and weight management.
Because ProLon is extremely low in calories for 5 days, it is considered a type of intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting involves cycling between periods of normal eating and drastically reduced calorie intake.
For people with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, some research indicates intermittent fasting may have anti-inflammatory effects and other benefits. But consistency is key - doing ProLon or other fasting too frequently may be counterproductive.
The Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Intermittent Fasting
Several studies on calorie restriction diets like intermittent fasting suggest they can reduce systemic inflammation. This is highly relevant for rheumatoid arthritis, as RA is an autoimmune condition driven by inflammation.
Lowering Inflammatory Cytokines
Research shows intermittent fasting helps decrease levels of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-) and others. Reducing these chemicals may ease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Changing Gut Bacteria
Studies indicate fasting alters gut microbiota in ways that reduce intestinal inflammation. This may decrease inflammatory responses systemically, including rheumatoid arthritis flares.
Inducing Autophagy
Fasting stimulates a cellular recycling process called autophagy, where damaged parts are reused for energy. Some research links autophagy to reduced inflammation and joint swelling in rheumatoid arthritis.
Supporting Immune Regulation
Fasting may support the immune systems regulation of inflammatory responses. This immune-regulation could potentially suppress excessive autoimmune reactions involved in rheumatoid arthritis.
Other Possible Benefits of Intermittent Fasting for Rheumatoid Arthritis
In addition to reducing inflammation, some research shows intermittent fasting may offer rheumatoid arthritis patients other advantages like:
Weight Loss
Fasting leads to calorie restriction which often results in weight loss. Losing excess weight reduces joint stress and may lower inflammatory chemicals linked to arthritis flares.
Better Heart Health
Studies show fasting may improve cardiovascular markers like blood pressure and lipids. Heart health is important for RA patients who have elevated cardiovascular risks.
Increased Mobility
One study found rheumatoid arthritis patients fasting for 7-10 days reported being able to move joints more easily. Range of motion improved from increased collagen production.
Lower Pain Sensitivity
Some research indicates fasting may reduce nerve growth factor (NGF) levels. Lower NGF is linked to decreased pain sensitivity. This effect could lower rheumatoid arthritis pain.
Improved Symptoms
One study found RA symptoms like morning stiffness, pain, and fatigue improved significantly during and after a 7-10 day fast. Patient-reported benefits lasted up to 3 months.
Is It Safe and Effective to Do ProLon Twice a Month?
Currently, there are no studies examining the effects specifically of doing the ProLon fasting mimicking diet twice a month. However, research on intermittent fasting in general sheds light on what effects could be expected from a twice monthly ProLon regimen.
Potential Benefits
Doing ProLon for 5 days twice a month may extend the anti-inflammatory, weight loss, and cardiometabolic benefits of intermittent fasting. This schedule could significantly reduce calories while still allowing normal eating half the month.
Possible Drawbacks
However, some drawbacks of a twice monthly ProLon schedule could include:
- Increased difficulty sticking with the regimen long-term
- Higher likelihood of malnutrition if diet is poor on non-fasting days
- Higher risk of binge eating after prolonged fasts
- Metabolic slowing and suppression of immune function
Need for Further Research
Overall the safety and efficacy of doing ProLon or other fasting mimicking diets twice a month have not been specifically studied. More research would be needed to definitively know the long-term effects of this schedule on inflammation, symptoms, weight maintenance and metabolism for rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Tips for Doing ProLon or Intermittent Fasting Safely with Rheumatoid Arthritis
If considering an intermittent fasting program like ProLon, there are some important safety factors to keep in mind with rheumatoid arthritis:
Consult Your Doctor First
Discuss fasting with your rheumatologist to ensure safety given your specific medication regimen and health status.
Fast Gradually
Build up from shorter 12-16 hour fasts to extended multi-day fasts over time to allow the body to adjust.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of non-caloric fluids during fasts to avoid dehydration which could provoke RA flares.
Supplement Wisely
Take a general multivitamin and mineral supplement if doing extended fasts to avoid deficiencies that can compromise immunity.
Listen To Your Body
Be alert to symptoms like hypoglycemia, low blood pressure or electrolyte imbalances. Stop fasting if adverse effects occur.
Break Fast Slowly
Gradually transition back to normal eating with broths, juices and gentle foods to avoid GI issues.
Consider Your Medications
Be aware some RA medications like methotrexate require food for absorption. Coordinate timing carefully with your doctor.
The Bottom Line on ProLon and Intermittent Fasting with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Emerging research indicates intermittent fasting may offer anti-inflammatory effects and other benefits for rheumatoid arthritis patients when done safely and in moderation.
But routinely doing extended fasts too frequently could backfire by slowing the metabolism, reducing lean muscle mass, and causing nutritional deficiencies and rebound effects.
Occasional short fasts lasting 1-3 days appear most sustainable for autoimmune conditions. Doing ProLon or mimic fasting diets twice a month may provide more benefits than risks for some people, but should be approached cautiously.
As with any diet change, discuss fasting plans with your rheumatologist first. Start gradually, fast only under medical supervision, and be attentive to any adverse effects. An integrated approach combining fasting with a healthy regular diet, exercise, and medications as directed offers optimal support.
FAQs
Is it safe to do ProLon twice a month?
More research is still needed, but occasional short fasts are likely safe for most people with rheumatoid arthritis under medical supervision. However, fasts done too frequently could backfire.
What are the potential benefits?
Doing ProLon twice monthly may extend anti-inflammatory effects, weight loss, improved cardiovascular markers, and other benefits shown in intermittent fasting research.
What are the drawbacks or risks?
Potential risks include difficulty sticking to the regimen, nutritional deficiencies if non-fasting diet is poor, increased likelihood of binge eating, and metabolic slowing.
How should medications be coordinated?
Consult a rheumatologist to coordinate timing of medications like methotrexate that require food for absorption. Avoid changing or stopping medications without medical oversight.
What precautions should people take?
Go slowly, stay hydrated, take supplements if needed, watch for adverse effects, break the fast gradually, and follow medical advice. Fasting should complement, not replace, RA treatments.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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