Here’s what is being said.
New insights from a study presented at the American Heart Association’s scientific sessions in Chicago have raised concerns about the potential risks associated with intermittent fasting, a dietary pattern characterized by alternating periods of fasting and eating.
Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine in China analyzed data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, examining the dietary habits of 20,000 American adults between 2003 and 2018. Contrary to the popular belief that intermittent fasting may confer health benefits, the study revealed a surprising discovery: individuals who restricted their daily eating window to less than eight hours faced a striking 91 percent higher risk of fatal cardiovascular diseases compared to those who consumed their meals over a 12 to 16-hour period.
Even more concerning, this elevated risk persisted among individuals with pre-existing heart disease or cancer. For example, those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions who limited their eating window to eight to ten hours per day had a 66 percent higher risk of death from heart disease or stroke.
Despite intermittent fasting gaining popularity for its purported advantages such as weight loss, disease risk reduction, and improved energy levels, the study’s findings cast doubt on its long-term health implications.
Lead researcher Dr. Victor Wenze Zhong expressed surprise at the adverse outcomes associated with intermittent fasting. While the diet has been touted for its short-term benefits, Dr. Zhong emphasized the lack of evidence supporting its long-term effects, particularly in relation to cardiovascular mortality rates.
However, Dr. Zhong cautioned against jumping to conclusions regarding causation between intermittent fasting and cardiovascular mortality, emphasizing the need for further research to explore the underlying biological mechanisms driving this association.
While short-term intermittent fasting may offer benefits such as weight loss and improved cardiometabolic health, Dr. Zhong advised individuals to exercise caution, especially when considering prolonged intermittent fasting. Instead, he urged individuals to make informed dietary choices aligned with their long-term health goals.
In summary, the study underscores the importance of carefully evaluating dietary practices and prioritizing long-term health outcomes over short-term trends like intermittent fasting.
