Recent Study Finds Intermittent Fasting Could Increase Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
The popular trend of intermittent fasting, specifically the 16:8 method, may not be as beneficial as once thought according to a new study presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association. The study, conducted on a sample of 20,000 US adults followed for an average of 8 to 17 years, found that those who followed the 16:8 intermittent fasting method were more likely to die from cardiovascular diseases compared to those who followed a regular diet spread out over 12-16 hours.
Intermittent fasting involves alternating between periods of eating and fasting, with the 16:8 method being one of the most popular variations. While intermittent fasting has been touted for its metabolic and purifying benefits, the study suggests that the risks may outweigh the benefits, especially in the long term.
Researchers at the American Heart Association found that those who practiced 16:8 intermittent fasting had a 91% higher risk of death from cardiovascular diseases and a 66% greater risk of death from heart disease or stroke. These findings highlight the potential negative long-term health impact of intermittent fasting.
Previous studies have also raised concerns about the negative effects of intermittent fasting over prolonged periods. Biologist Elena Dogliotti, scientific supervisor of the Umberto Veronesi Foundation, explained that prolonged fasting can have counterproductive effects on metabolism, circadian rhythm, and hormone production. The stress that the body undergoes during extended fasting periods can lead to increased cortisol levels, resulting in negative physical and psychological consequences.
As the popularity of intermittent fasting continues to grow, it is important for individuals to consider the potential risks and consult with medical professionals before adopting this eating practice, especially for long periods of time. It is clear that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of intermittent fasting on overall health and well-being.