This project explores the impact of prolonged intermittent fasting on cognitive function and physiological behavior through the GetSmart study—a nationwide 8-week Randomized Control Trial. The presentation covers intermittent fasting basics, its historical context, and its positive correlation with cognitive performance. Key points include the physiological mechanisms influenced by intermittent fasting, such as circadian, cellular, and metabolic processes. The study focuses on midlife adults with obesity and memory decline, comparing Prolonged Nightly Fasting (PNF) against a Health Education Control (HEC) group. The presentation details eligibility criteria, screening, and data collection methods, including T-MoCA assessments and REDCap. It also depicts a flow diagram that illustrates the study process, and the researcher-participant connection emphasizes the importance of circadian rhythms for health. The conclusion of the presentation highlights the positive impacts of intermittent fasting on cognitive function.

In this project I explored the relationship between Qigong and Tai Chi Easy meditative practices and cardiometabolic risk factors, specifically looking at obesity and stress. The meditative focus of Qigong and Tai Chi Easy was expected to improve cardiac vagal tone which should lead to decreases in the inflammatory effects of stress. Additionally, due to the decreases in the harmful effects of stress, we expect to see a decrease in obesity through decreases in BMI and in waist circumference.