For a decade, intermittent fasting (IF), a popular dietary regimen, has captured attention for its potential health benefits. However, a groundbreaking new study challenges some of those assumptions, suggesting a startling link between IF and an increased risk of premature death from cardiovascular disease (CVD).
A Closer Look at the Risks
Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China conducted an in-depth analysis of data from over 20,000 adults in the United States between 2003 and 2018. They discovered that individuals who restricted their eating time to less than eight hours a day faced a staggering 91% higher risk of fatal CVD compared to those who ate throughout a 12- to 16-hour window.
Alarmingly, the elevated CVD risk extended to those living with existing heart conditions or cancer. Participants with cardiovascular disease who limited their eating hours to between eight and ten daily had a 66% higher mortality risk due to heart disease or stroke.
Digging Deeper into Intermittent Fasting
IF typically involves consuming meals within a specific time frame, such as a six-to-eight-hour window, while abstaining from food for the remaining 16 to 18 hours. Previous studies have suggested IF can aid weight loss, minimize the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, and regulate blood pressure.
Unraveling the Inconsistencies
The findings of the new study challenge some notions about IF’s long-term impact on cardiovascular health. While the analysis remains unpublished and unreviewed by peers, it raises concerns about the potential dangers of extreme fasting practices.
Expert Perspectives
Victor Wenze Zhong, Ph.D., lead study author, cautions against making definitive recommendations based on the analysis alone. He advises that short-term IF (less than 3 months) may still provide benefits for weight management and improving heart health.
However, Zhong emphasizes the need for prudence when considering long-term IF, recommending that individuals exercise utmost caution due to the potential risks.
Implications for Health Seekers
The findings of the study highlight the importance of seeking professional advice before embarking on any extreme dietary changes. While IF may offer some short-term benefits, individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions should consult with their healthcare providers before considering prolonged fasts.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap
Ongoing research will help shed light on the complex relationship between IF and CVD risk. In the meantime, it’s essential to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet that supports overall well-being.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
