In mice and rats, eating only at certain times of day (like skipping meals sometimes) seems to boost a brain protein that helps with memory and thinking.
Scientific Claim
Intermittent fasting has been consistently reported to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and improve cognitive performance in animal models.
Original Statement
“IF was consistently reported to upregulate BDNF and improve cognitive performance in animal models.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design cannot support claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The phrase 'consistently reported' reflects a summary of other studies, not original evidence. The abstract avoids causal verbs like 'causes' or 'improves' in humans, making the language appropriately cautious.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Unknown Title
This study looked at many scientific papers and found that in animals, skipping meals sometimes (intermittent fasting) helps the brain make more of a helpful protein called BDNF, which improves memory and thinking.