Certain gut bacteria breaks down bile acids—substances produced by the liver to digest fats. During this process, gut bacteria create a compound called lithocholic acid (LCA), according to a January 10 2025 India Times report.
The report references a study that shows that LCA extends life in a mice study. They found that LCA mimics the effects of fasting; helping the body repair itself and manage energy more effectively.
Researchers discovered that LCA activates a protein called TULP3 inside our cells, which triggers the “fasting effect” of cell repair and energy management, according to the India Times report.