The Pre-Medical Society of the Ateneo - Senior High School

30/04/2026

27/04/2026

[RESETA ISSUE #16]

Life of a First-year Medical Student

Entering medical school is often seen as the fulfillment of a long-held dream. However, for many first-year students, it also marks the beginning of an intense and often overwhelming transition. Beyond the prestige and purpose of the profession lies a reality defined by heavy academic demands, emotional pressure, and the constant need to adapt. Understanding these experiences is essential not only for preparing future medical students, but also for recognizing the challenges that shape their journey.

One of the earliest struggles encountered in medical school is self-doubt. Many first-year students experience feelings of inadequacy, questioning whether they truly deserve their place in such a competitive environment. This experience, often linked to imposter syndrome, can negatively affect confidence and academic performance (Shah, 2022). However, these feelings are not uncommon and tend to lessen over time as students gradually build competence through continuous study, clinical exposure, and experience.

Alongside insecurity, academic difficulty is another major challenge. Medical education introduces a volume and complexity of information that is significantly greater than what most students have previously encountered. Studies show that difficulties in adapting to this workload, combined with ineffective study strategies and time management, can lead to poor academic performance and increased stress (Malau-Aduli et al., 2020). In addition, students are often required to engage in research activities early in their training, which can present further challenges due to limited prior experience and insufficient guidance (Riva et al., 2019). These academic pressures highlight the importance of developing effective learning strategies and seeking support when needed.

Closely related to these challenges is the growing concern of burnout among medical students. Burnout is characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of accomplishment. Research indicates that high levels of stress, academic pressure, and lack of balance can contribute to burnout, which in turn is associated with decreased well-being and even thoughts of dropping out (Sinval et al., 2024). From a student’s perspective, burnout does not occur suddenly but develops gradually through prolonged stress and fatigue (Morcos & Awan, 2022). This underscores the importance of recognizing early signs and adopting strategies to manage stress effectively.

Because of these challenges, self-care becomes not just important, but necessary. Contrary to the belief that medical school leaves no time for personal well-being, maintaining physical and mental health is essential for sustaining performance. Practices such as proper nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient rest help students cope with the demands of their training (Musilova, 2021). Learning to balance academic responsibilities with personal well-being allows students to remain productive while protecting their long-term health.

Equally important are the relationships formed with fellow students. Medical school can be an isolating experience, but peers often serve as a crucial support system. Studying together, sharing challenges, and encouraging one another help foster a sense of belonging and resilience (Samones, 2020). However, it is important for students to avoid unhealthy comparisons, as constant comparison can increase stress and undermine self-confidence.

In conclusion, the experience of a first-year medical student goes beyond academics. It is a period of adjustment marked by self-doubt, intense workload, and the risk of burnout, but also by growth, connection, and self-discovery. Being accepted into medical school is already a testament to one’s potential. By acknowledging these challenges and responding with perseverance and self-awareness, students can navigate this stage successfully and move forward in becoming compassionate and competent physicians.

REFERENCES
Malau-Aduli, B. S., Ray, R. A., O’Connor, T., Van Der Kruk, Y., Alele, F. O., & Bellingan, M. (2020). Dealing with Academic Difficulty in Medical School: A Pilot Study. Education Sciences, 10(3), 83. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci10030083
Morcos, G., & Awan, O. A. (2022). Burnout in medical School: A medical Student’s perspective. Academic Radiology, 30(6), 1223–1225. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acra.2022.11.023
Musilova, E. (2021, December 2). A Day in the Life of a First Year Medical Student | The Kellner Family Foundation. The Kellner Family Foundation. https://www.kellnerfoundation.cz/en/universities/news/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-first-year-medical-student
Riva, J. J., Elsharawi, R., Daza, J., Toma, A., Whyte, R., Agarwal, G., & Busse, J. W. (2019, July 24). Medical students’ challenges and suggestions regarding research training: a synthesis of comments from a cross- sectional survey. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6681923/
Samones , P. (2020). The Same City, a Different Perspective. Aspiringdocsdiaries.org. https://aspiringdocsdiaries.org/the-same-city-a-different-perspective/
Sinval, J., Oliveira, P., Novais, F., Almeida, C. M., & Telles-Correia, D. (2024). Correlates of burnout and dropout intentions in medical students: A cross-sectional study. Journal of Affective Disorders, 364, 221–230. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2024.08.003
Shaurya Shah, S. (2022). Experience Sharing: First and Second Year of a Medical College. Journal of Nepal Medical Association, 60(245). https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.7085

Article by: Sean Robles
Revised by: Mehkiah Bautista & Reiann Lampa
Pubmat by: Kirsten Rosos

25/04/2026

[RESETA ISSUE #15]

Steps to Becoming a Doctor in the Philippines

The path to becoming a physician in the Philippines is a structured and rigorous process that requires strong academic preparation, perseverance, and long-term commitment. Each stage plays a crucial role in developing the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies needed in the medical field.

At the senior high school level, students are encouraged to build a solid foundation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Strong performance in these subjects helps prepare students for college entrance requirements and provides the necessary background for pre-medical education.

This is followed by an undergraduate degree, typically in pre-med courses such as Biology, Nursing, Pharmacy, or other health-related programs. During this stage, students complete required science units in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics within CHED-recognized institutions. These programs help develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential for medical school preparation.

Aspiring doctors must then take the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT), a standardized examination used by medical schools as part of their admission process. The NMAT evaluates competencies in science, mathematics, language, and social sciences, and results are considered alongside academic performance and other application requirements when applying to medical schools (Bukas, 2022; Advance Study, 2025).

Upon admission, students undergo medical education, which typically consists of four years of study. The first half focuses on foundational medical sciences, while the latter years involve clinical training, hospital rotations, and clerkship. This phase is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world clinical experience. After completing medical school, graduates must pass the Physician Licensure Examination (PLE) administered by the Professional Regulation Commission in order to practice medicine legally (FilipiKnow, 2023; SWU PHINMA, n.d.).

Following licensure, physicians may enter residency training, which can take three to six years depending on the chosen specialization. Residency provides advanced, supervised training in specific fields of medicine and is essential for those who wish to become specialists. Alternatively, licensed physicians may choose to practice as general practitioners in clinics or hospitals.

Overall, becoming a doctor in the Philippines is a demanding but purposeful journey that requires continuous learning and dedication. Each stage contributes to the development of competent, ethical, and compassionate healthcare professionals capable of serving the needs of society (Bukas, 2022; FilipiKnow, 2023; Medical Recruitment International Consulting Group, 2018).

REFERENCES
Bukas. (2022, March 20). How to become a doctor in the Philippines: Everything you need to know.
https://bukas.ph/blog/how-to-become-a-doctor-in-the-philippines-everything-you-need-to-know/
Advance Study. (2025, July 29). How can I become a doctor in the Philippines?
https://advancestudy.org/how-can-i-become-a-doctor-in-the-philippines/
Filipiknow. (2023, June 6). How to become a doctor in the Philippines: An ultimate guide.
https://filipiknow.net/how-to-become-a-doctor-in-the-philippines/
SWU PHINMA. (n.d.). Med school FAQ: How long does it take to be a doctor in the Philippines?
https://swu.phinma.edu.ph/how-long-does-it-take-to-be-a-doctor/
Medical Recruitment International Consulting Group. (2018, June 24). Medical education in the Philippines.
https://www.mricg.info/single-post/2018/06/24/medical-education-in-the-philippines

Article by: Marco Sumalpong & Mehkiah Bautista
Revised by: Reiann Lampa
Pubmat by: Marco Sumalpong

24/04/2026

[RESETA ISSUE #14]

Choosing The Right Pre-med Course

Choosing a pre-med course is one of the most challenging decisions for aspiring doctors. Many students feel unsure about which undergraduate path will best prepare them for medicine, a decision that can shape their academic experience as well as their careers.. A “pre-med course” isn’t a single specific major but rather an educational path that prepares students for medical school by helping them build the knowledge and skills needed for success later on.
A good pre-med choice influences not only acceptance to medical school but also the confidence, competence, and readiness of a future physician. Therefore, students should thoughtfully consider both personal strengths and the academic demands of their chosen course. (Kakulamarri, 2022)
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Pre-Med Course
There is no single “best” pre-med major that guarantees admission to medical school. Most medical schools do not require applicants to have a specific undergraduate major, but they do expect completion of certain science prerequisites like biology, chemistry, physics, and organic chemistry.

This means that students can choose a course that matches their strengths, interests, and long-term goals while also completing required medical school coursework .When choosing a pre-med course, students should consider their personal interests and motivation, as enjoying their field of study makes it easier to stay engaged, perform well academically, and sustain long-term commitment. Academic strengths also play an important role; while science-based courses often overlap more closely with medical school prerequisites, students from humanities or social science backgrounds can still succeed in medical school if they complete the required subjects. Workload and balance should also be taken into account, since science-heavy programs tend to be demanding and may lead to burnout if not well managed. Lastly, having a career contingency plan is essential, as choosing a degree that can stand on its own, such as nursing or pharmacy, can provide job security in case one’s plans to pursue medicine change. (Princeton Review, 2022)

Common Pre-Med Courses in the Philippines & Other Pathways
In the Philippines, there are several traditional pre-med courses that students typically choose to prepare for medical school. Common undergraduate degrees include BS Biology, BS Medical Technology, BS Pharmacy, BS Nursing, and BS Psychology. These programs build essential scientific knowledge and develop skills in areas such as human biology, laboratory techniques, patient care, pharmacology, and human behavior, foundational competencies useful for medical studies later on. For example, BS Medical Technology and BS Pharmacy cover subjects like microbiology, pathology, and pharmacology that overlap with second-year medical school topics, and BS Nursing offers a strong foundation in holistic patient care and clinical skills. (Trinity University, 2022)

Beyond these traditional courses, there are alternative or accelerated pathways designed to streamline the journey to becoming a doctor. One well-known option is the Integrated Liberal Arts and Medicine (INTARMED) program at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, which integrates the pre-medical and medical curriculums into a seven-year program, allowing high-school graduates to enter directly into a continuous medical education track. (UP College of Medicine)

Another accelerated pathway is LEAPMed (Learning-Enhanced Accelerated Program for Medicine) at the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery. LEAPMed combines a two-year Bachelor of Science in Basic Human Studies with immediate progression into the four-year Doctor of Medicine program, saving time while giving students early exposure to core human science subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and behavioral medicine. (UST, 2025)

Still other innovative pathways include programs like BS Human Biology at De La Salle University, which similarly allows students to enter the medical curriculum earlier by integrating undergraduate and medical studies.

These varied options show that students can tailor their pre-med preparation not just through traditional science and health-related degrees, but also through structured accelerated programs that suit different goals, strengths, and timelines.

Skills Developed in Pre-Med Courses That Matter in Medical School
Beyond coursework content, pre-med paths help students develop transferable skills that are critical to becoming successful physicians. Effective communication and empathy are essential for patient care and collaboration with other healthcare professionals, and pre-med courses that involve patient interaction or behavioral studies help strengthen these abilities. Pre-med training also develops strong time management and organizational skills, as students learn to balance heavy workloads, prioritize tasks, and maintain responsible study habits, skills that are necessary for keeping pace with the demands of medical school and clinical training. In addition, pre-med study enhances critical thinking and scientific literacy by training students to analyze data, evaluate evidence, and apply logical reasoning to complex problems. Finally, science and math-focused courses sharpen analytical and problem-solving skills, teaching students to approach challenges with precision and structure, which proves valuable in medical entrance exams such as the National Medical Admission Test and throughout medical education. (Bourke, 2025)

Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right pre-med course is a deeply personal and strategic decision, not a one-size-fits-all rule. Just as the beginning of this journey is often filled with confusion, pressure, and uncertainty, the path forward becomes clearer when students learn to focus on what truly matters. Whether one pursues a degree in the sciences, social sciences, or health professions, success in medicine is shaped less by the title of the course and more by the skills developed along the way such as communication, empathy, critical thinking, resilience, and disciplined work habits. With thoughtful planning and self-awareness, a pre-med course becomes more than just preparation for medical school. It becomes a training ground for character, compassion, and purpose. In the end, choosing a path that aligns with one’s strengths and values helps transform early doubts into confidence, laying a strong foundation not only for admission into medical school but for lifelong growth as a caring, competent, and dedicated physician.

REFERENCES
Admin. (2024, May 24). 8 Best Pre-Med Courses to take in the Philippines. Trinity University of Asia. https://www.tua.edu.ph/blogs/pre-med-courses-to-take-in-the-philippines/
Bourke, M., & Bourke, M. (2025, November 12). Top soft skills every Pre-Med student should develop before med school. MEDLIFE. https://www.medlifemovement.org/medlife-stories/students/top-soft-skills-every-pre-med-student-should-develop-before-med-school
How to choose a Pre-Med major. (n.d.). The Princeton Review. https://www.princetonreview.com/med-school-advice/how-to-choose-a-pre-med-major?
How to pursue the Pre-Med path in College. (2022, October 7). CollegeVine Blog. https://blog.collegevine.com/pre-med-path-college?
Top skills to develop in Pre-Med | Trinity School of Medicine. (n.d.). https://www.trinityschoolofmedicine.org/about/resources/blog/top-pre-med-skills?
Tiger’s LAIR - admissions. (n.d.). https://www.leapmed.org/admissions?
UPCM web portal College of Medicine - University of the Philippines Manila. (n.d.). College of Medicine - University of the Philippines Manila. https://cm.upm.edu.ph/p/programs-offered/?

Article by: Ethan Hui & Mehkiah Bautista
Revised by: Mehkiah Bautista & Reiann Lampa
Pubmat by: Kirsten Rosos

24/04/2026

[RESETA ISSUE #13]

Does Expensive Skincare Mean Better?

In our current society, the global skincare market has been growing significantly at an average rate of 7.32% annually according to the recent report of Fortune Business Insights (2026). When you browse the aisles of a store, you often see a wide range of products, and more often than not, consumers gravitate toward high end brands under the assumption that luxury names possess a superior formula. However, one must wonder if this is truly the case.

The short answer is not necessarily. Frequently, the primary differences between expensive and inexpensive products lie in their marketing, packaging, and proprietary ingredients. These are the unique formulas that separate one product from another in a crowded market. While expensive skincare often boasts higher concentrations and premium quality active ingredients like hyaluronic acid for dry skin, these factors do not automatically guarantee effectiveness or better results (Thompson, 2022).

Instead of focusing on the price tag, you should prioritize two specific elements: the unique needs of your skin and the active ingredients within the products you plan to use. It is essential to identify your skin type, set clear goals, and thoroughly research products that are suitable for your complexion while remaining within your budget. There are numerous widely available drugstore options and clinical brands that are recognized by medical professionals for being both effective and accessible. By focusing on dermatologically tested formulations rather than prestige pricing, you can find high quality essentials that provide the same benefits as luxury counterparts without the unnecessary markup.
Beyond self research, seeking professional guidance can save both your skin and your wallet. Consulting a board certified dermatologist is the most reliable way to navigate the market. These experts can provide a personalized analysis of your skin concerns and recommend medical grade or accessible over the counter options that actually work for your specific skin type. In addition, a professional consultation ensures that you are not just buying into a trend but rather investing in a routine that is scientifically backed and safe for your long term health.
Ultimately, the journey toward healthy skin is not paved with luxury labels but with informed choices and consistency. While the allure of high-end packaging is strong, achieving a "dewy" or "glass" skin complexion depends entirely on how well a product’s chemistry aligns with your unique biological needs. By shifting the focus from brand prestige to ingredient efficacy and professional guidance, you empower yourself to make sustainable decisions for your skin’s health. In the end, the most effective routine is not the one that costs the most, but the one that is backed by science and tailored specifically for you.

REFERENCES
Muenter, O. (2024, August 19). Is expensive skincare worth it? we asked dermatologists. Byrdie. https://www.byrdie.com/difference-between-expensive-and-affordable-skincare-4800708
Skincare market size, share, trends: Growth Analysis [2034]. Skincare Market Size, Share, Trends | Growth Analysis [2034]. (n.d.). https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/skin-care-market-102544
Thompson, A. (2022, August 23). Are expensive skincare products worth it?. Mira Health. https://www.talktomira.com/post/are-expensive-skincare-products-worth-it

Article by: Chelsea Temprosa & Mehkiah Ocean D. Bautista
Revised by: Mehkiah Ocean D. Bautista & Reiann Marie J. Lampa
Pubmat by: Kirsten Rosos

20/04/2026

[RESETA ISSUE #12]

Breaking Myths About Protein Powders

Protein powders are widely used dietary supplements known for supporting recovery after exercise and helping individuals meet their daily protein needs. However, several misconceptions still surround their use, including the belief that they are only for athletes, harmful to the kidneys, or unsafe for consumption.

Myth 1: Protein Powders Are Only For Bodybuilders
Protein powders are often associated with body building and strength training. However, research shows that their benefits extend beyond this group. Studies indicate that protein supplementation can support muscle strength and physical performance not only in athletes but also among other populations with increased protein needs such as clinical patients (Al-Rawhani et al., 2024). In particular, protein supplementation has been shown to increase muscle mass and functional strength in older adults, which is essential for maintaining mobility and overall health (Al-Rawhani et al., 2024). This suggests that protein powders can be beneficial for a wide range of individuals.

Myth 2: Protein Powders Damage the Kidneys and Liver
A common misconception about the usage of protein supplements is that it may harm the kidneys or liver. This comes from the idea that higher protein intake forces the kidneys to “work harder” to process protein. However, scientific evidence does not support this claim for healthy individuals. A meta-analysis conducted found that higher protein intake does not negatively affect kidney function in individuals without pre-existing kidney disease (Devries et al., 2018). It is important to note, however, that those with existing kidney conditions should consult healthcare professionals before increasing protein intake, as their dietary needs may differ.

Myth 3: Protein Powders Are Unsafe and Artificial
Protein powders are believed to be unsafe because they are thought to contain harmful chemicals. In reality, however, most protein powders come from natural food sources such as milk (whey or casein), eggs, soybeans, peas, or rice (Sharma et al., 2025). Recent nutrition research highlights that these products can provide high nutritional value and may offer additional health benefits, including improved digestion and suitability for individuals with dietary conditions (Sharma et al., 2025). When produced under proper quality standards and consumed as directed, protein powders are generally considered safe and an effective source of protein (Sharma et al., 2025).

Conclusion
In conclusion, protein powders are not exclusively for bodybuilders, nor are they inherently harmful when consumed appropriately. However, choosing high-quality protein supplements and using them responsibly remains important. When incorporated properly into a balanced diet, protein powders can be a valuable tool in supporting overall health, fitness, and nutrition.

REFERENCES
Alkurd, R., Mahrous, L., Zeb, F., Khan, M. A., Alhaj, H., Khraiwesh, H. M., & Faris, M. E. (2024). Effect of calorie restriction and intermittent fasting regimens on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic factor levels and Cognitive Function in Humans: a systematic review. Medicina, 60(1), 191. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60010191

Llanes, E. J. B., Gonzales, E. M., Reyes, D. R., Gubat, M. J. G., Estipona-Villaraza, M. E., Bautista, J. T., Santos, L. E. G., Rey, N., De Guzman-Quizon, O. Q., Saret, J., Saret, T., Nicodemus, N. A., Matawaran, B. J., & Jimeno, C. A. (2020). Philippine Consensus Statement on the use of ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting diet on Adults for weight reduction. Philippine Journal of Internal Medicine, 58(4), 106–111. https://doi.org/10.65564/pjim.3d944b84ce

Liu, S., Zeng, M., Wan, W., Huang, M., Li, X., Xie, Z., Wang, S., & Cai, Y. (2023). The Health-Promoting Effects and the mechanism of intermittent fasting. Journal of Diabetes Research, 2023, 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/4038546

Londre, R. [Romi Londre, RDN, CD]. (2022, June 17). Intermittent fasting: fad or valid weight-loss solution? Mayo Clinic Health System.https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/intermittent-fasting-fad-or-solution

Nye, K., Cherrin, C., & Meires, J. (2024). Intermittent Fasting: Exploring approaches, benefits, and implications for health and weight management. The Journal for Nurse Practitioners, 20(3), 104893. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nurpra.2023.104893

Puderbaugh, M., & Emmady, P. D. (2023, May 1). Neuroplasticity. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557811/

Tahreem, A., Rakha, A., Rabail, R., Nazir, A., Socol, C. T., Maerescu, C. M., & Aadil, R. M. (2022). Fad diets: Facts and fiction. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9, 960922. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.960922

Takeuchi, T., Duszkiewicz, A. J., & Morris, R. G. M. (2013). The synaptic plasticity and memory hypothesis: encoding, storage and persistence. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences, 369(1633), 20130288. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2013.0288

Article by: Marcus Cyrus A. Molina
Revised by: Mehkiah Ocean D. Bautista & Reiann Marie J. Lampa
Pubmat by: Kirsten Rosos

20/04/2026

[RESETA ISSUE #11]

What is Intermittent Fasting and How It Can Improve Brain Function

Oftentimes, fasting is thought of as a routine to lose weight. However, what if there were a structured approach to fasting that could not only improve physical health, but also enhance brain function? This approach, known as intermittent fasting, has gained increasing attention for its potential cognitive benefits. This article aims to discuss what intermittent fasting is, its potential effects on brain health, and its advantages and limitations as a dietary practice.

Fad diets have become widely used approaches for achieving the ideal body weight through weight reduction (Llanes et al., 2020). These diets are often characterized by their popularity, restrictive patterns, and promises of rapid results, but they may lack long-term sustainability and balanced nutrition (Tahreem et al., 2022). In recent years, both intermittent fasting (IF) and the ketogenic diet (KD) have gained significant popularity among Filipinos (Llanes et al., 2020). Various media platforms have played a key role in promoting these dietary trends, shaping public perception regarding their effectiveness and safety (Llanes et al., 2020).

Intermittent fasting is a dietary pattern that alternates between periods of eating and fasting. This may be done in two ways, including alternate-day fasting (ADF) and time-restricted fasting (TRF) (Liu et al., 2023). ADF involves alternating between “eating days” in which individuals consume approximately 125-150% of calories found from a regular diet, and “fasting days”, in which they reduce their intake to 25% or less (Liu et al., 2023). On the other hand, TRF allows individuals to eat within a limited time window, typically ranging from 3 to 12 hours, followed by fasting for the rest of the day (Liu et al., 2023).

Over time, intermittent fasting may contribute to weight loss and improvements in metabolic health (Londre, 2022; Liu et al., 2023). Beyond this, emerging research suggests that intermittent fasting may also have beneficial effects on brain function. One proposed mechanism is its ability to induce levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein produced in the central nervous system that plays a key role in synaptic transmissions and neuroplasticity (Alkurd et al., 2024). Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize itself by forming new neural connections (Puderbaugh & Emmady, 2023). In other words, BDNF strengthens connections between neurons in the brain which greatly improves memory formation and learning (Takeuchi et al., 2013; Alkurd et al., 2024). In addition to its cognitive benefits, intermittent fasting has been associated with improved insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation, and better metabolic regulation (Liu et al., 2023; Nye et al., 2024).

Despite these potential benefits, intermittent fasting is not without limitations. Some individuals may experience adverse effects such as fatigue, headaches, irritability, and difficulty concentrating, particularly during the initial stages of fasting (Nye et al., 2024). Furthermore, some studies suggest that restrictive eating patterns may be associated with reduced bone density and potential hormonal imbalances when practiced long-term without proper nutritional guidance (Nye et al., 2024). Moreover, prolonged or improperly managed fasting may lead to inadequate nutrient intake, which can negatively affect overall health (Tahreem et al., 2022).

Another important consideration is sustainability. While intermittent fasting may produce short-term benefits, maintaining such dietary patterns over the long term can be challenging due to their restrictive nature and the difficulty of adherence over time (Liu et al., 2023; Tahreem et al., 2022). This reflects a broader concern with fad diets, which often emphasize rapid results but may lack long-term sustainability and balanced nutritional intake (Llanes et al., 2020). As a result, individuals may struggle to maintain consistent dietary habits, potentially limiting the long-term effectiveness of these approaches (Liu et al., 2023).

In conclusion, intermittent fasting is a structured dietary practice in which a person sets specific periods or days to fast and eat. While it may offer benefits such as weight loss, improved metabolic health, and enhanced brain function, it also presents potential risks and limitations. As with many fad diets, its effectiveness and safety depend on proper implementation and individual health conditions. Therefore, intermittent fasting should be approached with caution, and individuals are encouraged to consider balanced, sustainable dietary practices when aiming to improve both physical and cognitive health

REFERENCES
Alkurd, R., Mahrous, L., Zeb, F., Khan, M. A., Alhaj, H., Khraiwesh, H. M., & Faris, M. E. (2024). Effect of calorie restriction and intermittent fasting regimens on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic factor levels and Cognitive Function in Humans: a systematic review. Medicina, 60(1), 191. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60010191

Llanes, E. J. B., Gonzales, E. M., Reyes, D. R., Gubat, M. J. G., Estipona-Villaraza, M. E., Bautista, J. T., Santos, L. E. G., Rey, N., De Guzman-Quizon, O. Q., Saret, J., Saret, T., Nicodemus, N. A., Matawaran, B. J., & Jimeno, C. A. (2020). Philippine Consensus Statement on the use of ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting diet on Adults for weight reduction. Philippine Journal of Internal Medicine, 58(4), 106–111. https://doi.org/10.65564/pjim.3d944b84ce

Liu, S., Zeng, M., Wan, W., Huang, M., Li, X., Xie, Z., Wang, S., & Cai, Y. (2023). The Health-Promoting Effects and the mechanism of intermittent fasting. Journal of Diabetes Research, 2023, 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/4038546

Londre, R. [Romi Londre, RDN, CD]. (2022, June 17). Intermittent fasting: fad or valid weight-loss solution? Mayo Clinic Health System.https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/intermittent-fasting-fad-or-solution

Nye, K., Cherrin, C., & Meires, J. (2024). Intermittent Fasting: Exploring approaches, benefits, and implications for health and weight management. The Journal for Nurse Practitioners, 20(3), 104893. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nurpra.2023.104893

Puderbaugh, M., & Emmady, P. D. (2023, May 1). Neuroplasticity. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557811/

Tahreem, A., Rakha, A., Rabail, R., Nazir, A., Socol, C. T., Maerescu, C. M., & Aadil, R. M. (2022). Fad diets: Facts and fiction. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9, 960922. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.960922

Takeuchi, T., Duszkiewicz, A. J., & Morris, R. G. M. (2013). The synaptic plasticity and memory hypothesis: encoding, storage and persistence. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences, 369(1633), 20130288. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2013.0288

Article by: Katina Venise P. Lim
Revised by: Mehkiah Ocean D. Bautista & Reiann Marie J. Lampa
Pubmat by: Kervin Chua