Intermittent fasting has gained popularity as a dietary trend for its potential health benefits without the typical constraints of calorie counting or carbohydrate restriction. This approach involves adjusting the timing of food consumption rather than the types of foods eaten. Notable figures, including former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, have publicly endorsed various fasting protocols.
Several studies have shown that extending overnight fasting periods may enhance metabolism, support cellular repair, and potentially increase lifespan. However, nutritionists caution that skipping meals may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with pre-existing health issues.
Recent research from a large-scale study examined data from over 19,000 adults, revealing concerning findings related to cardiovascular health. The analysis indicated that individuals who confined their eating to an eight-hour window faced a 135% increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease in comparison to those who ate over a span of 12-14 hours. The study found consistent elevated cardiovascular risk across various demographic factors but showed weaker and inconsistent links between time-restricted eating and overall mortality.
Researchers tracked participants over eight years and estimated their average eating windows through dietary recalls. The results suggested that those with narrower eating windows could be at greater risk, especially among vulnerable groups such as smokers and individuals with diabetes or existing heart conditions.
While the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it questions the narrative that intermittent fasting is a universally safe strategy for improved health. Health experts recommend personalized dietary advice tailored to individual health profiles and emphasize focusing on food quality rather than eating schedules. Until further evidence is available, individuals may benefit from considering their unique health circumstances when adopting fasting protocols.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0l6ye6xe12o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss