Giorgia Scarfò

By Jonathan Fusi, Giorgia Scarfò and Ferdinando Franzoni

Nowadays, the focus on health and nutrition has developed greatly. Literature data suggest that a healthy lifestyle is positively correlated with a reduction in numerous risk factors. In addition to the classic nutritional schemes, such as the Mediterranean diet or the Okinawa or vegan diet, fasting is becoming a choice that many people follow. But how many types of fasting are there? Are they all optimal? Are they advisable for all individuals? What is the impact of fasting on physical activity? Literature data show that glycaemic control, pre-workout meal and post-workout meal, are crucial for improved performance. But what are our body’s adaptations to fasted training? As happens, for example, during the period of RAMADAN. Is there a sport in which fasting can be most useful for performance purposes?

Part of the book: Insights into the Therapeutic Applications of Fasting

By Jonathan Fusi, Giorgia Scarfò and Ferdinando Franzoni

Oxidative stress represents a clinical condition in which there is an imbalance between radical species and antioxidant systems in favor of free radicals. When this condition is established, structural changes can occur in cells that can lead to phenomena such as premature aging or damage to the cardiovascular system or carcinogenesis. From a preventive perspective, physical activity seems to be an excellent way to improve the human body’s antioxidant defenses. The purpose of this work is to analyze literature data to understand the role of physical activity in improving antioxidant capacity and whether there is a type of physical activity that is more protective than other types.

Part of the book: Health Promotion