Intermittent Fasting Cuts Stress‑Induced Depression, Protects Myelin

A study by researchers at Chiba University’s Center for Mental Health in Japan found that intermittent fasting can mitigate depression‑like behavior caused by chronic stress. The team observed that skipping food for set periods altered the composition of gut microbiota and protected the myelin sheath surrounding brain neurons. Chronic stress is a known risk factor for depression and anxiety, and recent evidence suggests it damages myelin, impairing emotional regulation. Intermittent fasting appeared to reduce both behavioral symptoms and myelin injury in the experimental model.