Recent research presented at the American Heart Association’s scientific sessions suggests a potential downside to intermittent fasting—a popular dietary trend gaining traction in recent years.
The analysis, unveiled Monday, points to a concerning correlation between intermittent fasting and a heightened risk of cardiovascular mortality. Specifically, individuals restricting their eating window to less than eight hours a day faced a staggering 91 percent increased risk of fatal cardiovascular disease compared to those with a more extended eating period of 12 to 16 hours.
Even individuals with pre-existing heart disease or cancer exhibited a higher risk of cardiovascular death when adhering to intermittent fasting practices. Those with cardiovascular ailments who restricted their eating to eight to ten hours daily faced a 66 percent increased risk of death from heart disease or stroke.
While intermittent fasting has gained popularity for its touted benefits such as weight loss, disease risk reduction, and enhanced energy levels, this latest analysis suggests potential long-term implications that warrant attention.
The study, conducted by researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, utilized data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention spanning from 2003 to 2018, encompassing 20,000 American adults. However, it has not undergone peer review or been published in a scholarly journal.
Senior study author Victor Wenze Zhong, Ph.D., expressed surprise at the findings, urging caution in interpreting the results. While intermittent fasting may offer short-term benefits, the study underscores the importance of aligning dietary choices with individual health status.
Zhong emphasized the need for further research to elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms driving the observed link between intermittent fasting and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. He also noted the potential limitations of relying on individuals’ memories regarding their dietary habits.
While Zhong refrained from making definitive recommendations based on the analysis, he advised caution, particularly for prolonged periods of intermittent fasting. Acknowledging potential short-term benefits, he stressed the importance of vigilance in dietary choices, particularly concerning long-term health implications.
