Researchers Receive $2.3 Million Grant to Study Intermittent Fasting and Bone Fracture Healing

Bone healing is a complex biological process involving inflammation, new tissue formation, blood-vessel development and gradual remodelling of the injured bone. Nutrition plays an important role because the body needs sufficient energy, protein, vitamins and minerals to support tissue repair.

Intermittent fasting involves alternating periods of eating and fasting. Researchers are increasingly investigating how eating patterns influence metabolism, inflammation and other biological processes.

The University of Colorado Anschutz announcement describes a research project supported by a $2.3 million grant. The project will examine whether intermittent fasting affects the biological mechanisms involved in fracture healing.

The research may help scientists understand whether nutritional timing has an influence on bone repair and whether it could eventually inform recovery strategies.

However, the grant announcement does not mean that intermittent fasting has already been proven to accelerate fracture healing. Patients recovering from fractures should maintain adequate nutrition and follow their orthopaedic team's recommendations rather than beginning fasting regimens without medical advice.