This is shocking news.
A recent study has raised concerns regarding the potential negative effects of intermittent fasting on heart health.
The study found that individuals who restricted their eating to an 8-hour window faced a significantly higher risk of heart-related death, nearly doubling the risk compared to those with unrestricted eating habits.
This contradicts previous research that suggested intermittent fasting could improve various aspects of cardiovascular health, such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol levels.
Dr. Victor Wenze Zhong, the senior researcher from the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, expressed surprise at these findings. Despite the popularity of time-restricted eating for its perceived short-term benefits, it did not seem to correlate with longevity compared to a more traditional eating window spanning 12 to 16 hours per day.
The study analyzed data from over 20,000 U.S. adults surveyed between 2003 and 2018. It revealed that individuals following an 8-hour eating window had a 91% higher risk of heart-related mortality. This heightened risk was consistent even among those with pre-existing heart conditions.
Furthermore, among individuals with heart disease, limiting food intake to a 10-hour window was associated with a 66% increased risk of death from heart disease or stroke.
These findings underscore the importance of individuals, especially those with existing heart conditions, being cautious about the potential risks associated with a narrow eating window. Dr. Zhong emphasized the need for personalized dietary recommendations, taking into account an individual’s health status and the latest scientific evidence.
However, it’s essential to note that the study did not establish a causal relationship between intermittent fasting and heart-related mortality. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms behind the potential adverse effects of time-restricted eating on heart health.
Dr. Christopher Gardner, a professor of medicine at Stanford University, highlighted the importance of exploring differences among individuals engaging in intermittent fasting to identify any unique factors associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
Presented at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention scientific sessions in Chicago, these findings are preliminary and require peer-reviewed publication for validation, emphasizing the ongoing need for comprehensive research in this area.
Discussion about this post