Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine reports elements that may raise the risk of intermittent fasting, a fashionable diet. At the American Heart Association’s scientific sessions, the study found that eating all meals for 8 hours a day was 91% more likely to cause cardiovascular death than eating for 12–16 hours.
The study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, conducted on 20,000 adults. Cardiovascular illnesses increase mortality, especially in cancer and heart disease patients.
Previous studies show weight loss and decreased blood pressure. However, the latest study suggests intermittent fasting may harm heart health. Shorter meal length increases cardiovascular disease risk, according to research senior author Victor Wenze, Ph.D.
Although it has limitations, such as self-reported dietary information, it emphasises dietitians’ balanced and personalised approach. When advising on fasting patterns, Dr. Zhong stressed the need to consider a person’s health and the latest scientific results.
Dr. Pamela Tau, a cardiologist at UC San Diego Health, noted that intermittent fasting may assist some individuals but that the data is limited, making it impossible to generalise. She advised checking her health and consulting doctors before fasting.
The findings highlight the need for more research to determine how intermittent fasting affects cardiovascular health, warning individuals to approach fasting with caution and understanding of all dangers.
