Q: How Much Exercise Do You Need to Optimize Autophagy?
A: Research suggests that intense exercise has better results than mild exercise to optimize autophagy. The exact amount of exercise is not established.
Q: What kind of diet should I follow to use autophagy process to my advantage?
A: Restrictions on food and diet can result in autophagy due to nutrient starvation at the cellular level. However, excessive autophagy can also damage the healthy cells. Therefore, various diet programs suggest “fasting and feasting” techniques.
Q: What is the role of autophagy in autoimmune diseases?
A: Autophagy affects homeostasis of immune cells, antigen processing and other immune processes. The role of chaperone-mediated autophagy has been found to be significant in dealing with allergies, systemic lupus erythematosus and other autoimmune diseases.
Q: Can religious fasting be linked to autophagy?
A: Various religions suggest fasting as a ritual for their festivals and mourning days. This has an implication on health also. Periodic fasting, like once in a week or fortnight can cleanse the body of toxins even at the cellular level through the process of autophagy.
