Nutritionist Dr. David Park argues that intermittent fasting promotes cellular repair through a process called autophagy, where cells break down and recycle damaged components during fasting periods.
Which finding would best support Park's claim about autophagy benefits?
Some people find fasting difficult
Fasting has been practiced in various cultures
After 16-hour fasts, participants showed 40% higher autophagy markers and 25% reduction in damaged protein accumulation compared to continuous eaters
Weight loss can occur during fasting
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. Directly measures the claimed mechanism: autophagy markers up + damaged proteins down.
- Context clues: Park claims fasting triggers autophagy that clears damaged components.
- Evidence evaluation: 40% higher autophagy markers proves the process activates; 25% less damage proves it works.
- Verify: Both the mechanism and the outcome are measured.
💡 Strategy: Claims about biological mechanisms need evidence of both the process and its effect.