- Intermittent fasting, particularly the 16:8 method restricting eating to 8 hours daily, may be linked to an increased risk of death from heart disease according to a new study published by American Heart Association Journal.
- People with existing heart disease seem to be at a higher risk for heart disease or stroke-related death.
A new study published in the American Heart Association Journal has cast doubt on the safety of intermittent fasting. It is a dietary pattern that has gained significant popularity in recent years.
Research led by Dr Victor Zhong of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine found that restricting daily eating to an eight-hour window – popularly known as the 16:8 method – is associated with a significant increase in the risk of death from heart disease.
Intermittent Fasting: Study Data
The study analyzed data from over 20,000 adults in the US with an average age of 49. Participants who followed the 16:8 fasting plan were found to be 91% more likely to die from cardiovascular disease compared to those who had a longer eating window (12 or 16 hours).
The risk was even higher for individuals already battling heart disease. Those who limited their eating to 8-10 hours daily had a 66% increased risk of death from heart disease or stroke.
Interestingly, the study did not find any association between time-restricted eating and overall mortality. Additionally, people with cancer who ate for extended periods (more than 16 hours) showed a lower risk of death from the disease.
Does Intermittent Fasting Promotes Heart Health or Obstruct it?
These findings challenge the widely held belief that intermittent fasting promotes heart health. More research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between fasting patterns and cardiovascular disease.
While this study raises concerns, it’s important to note that it’s a single piece of research. More long-term studies are needed to confirm these findings.
For individuals considering intermittent fasting, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
5 Health Benefits of Fasting in Ramadan Backed by Science. Read the full story here:
Fasting plays a pivotal role in various religions and cultures. Recently, fasting has gained immense popularity among health-conscious individuals. There are many kinds of fasting, but the one that deficits the way Muslims fast in the blessed month of Ramadan is Intermittent fasting.
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