Fasting for Endometrial Cancer

(FIT-ENDO Trial)

This trial examines the safety of overnight fasting for women with endometrial cancer preparing for surgery. Researchers aim to determine if fasting overnight can address metabolism issues, such as high blood sugar, which might influence cancer growth or treatment success. Participants will either follow a prolonged overnight fasting (POF) plan or receive general health coaching to compare outcomes. Women diagnosed with low-grade endometrial cancer and planning surgery may be suitable candidates for this study. As an unphased trial, it provides a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could enhance pre-surgical care for future patients.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are taking insulin, metformin, sulfonylureas, or GLP-1 agonist medications for diabetes, you cannot participate in the trial.

Studies have shown that fasting overnight for an extended period is generally well-tolerated. Research from a similar fasting study found that 95% of participants successfully fasted for at least 70% of the study nights, suggesting that many can manage the fasting routine without major issues.

Researchers are excited about the potential of prolonged overnight fasting (POF) for endometrial cancer because it offers a novel approach to treatment without the use of drugs or invasive procedures. Unlike traditional treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, which target the cancer cells directly, POF aims to improve overall metabolic health by altering eating patterns. This method could potentially reduce cancer-related fatigue and improve recovery without the side effects associated with more aggressive treatments. Additionally, the integration of a nutrition health coach and the use of wearable technology for monitoring make this approach personalized and user-friendly, which might enhance patient engagement and outcomes.

This trial will evaluate the effects of Prolonged Overnight Fasting (POF) on women with endometrial cancer. Studies have shown that fasting overnight for an extended period might benefit these patients. Early research indicates that fasting can help address metabolic issues, such as high blood sugar, which is common in these patients. This is important because high blood sugar can lead to inflammation, potentially aiding cancer growth or reducing treatment effectiveness. Similar studies have linked fasting to improvements in anxiety, body weight, depression, and fatigue. Animal studies suggest that fasting could slow tumor growth and enhance treatment efficacy. Participants in this trial will join either the POF group or an attention control group to assess these potential benefits.¹²³⁶⁷