However, specialists have advised against making any hard conclusions from the study just yet—it hasn't been published or subjected to peer review.
Researchers discovered that those who observed the 16:8 intermittent fasting diet had a 91% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease than people who did not. However, specialists have advised against making any hard conclusions from the study just yet—it hasn’t been published or subjected to peer review.
Many people follow the health fad of intermittent fasting, but researchers are now concerned about possible cardiovascular dangers related to this practice.
The research was presented at the EPI Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2024 in Chicago and included an analysis of the popular time-restricted dieting technique known as 16:8 intermittent fasting.
In depth
While the practice of intermittent fasting has gained popularity due to its supposed benefits—which include weight loss, reduced cholesterol levels, and enhanced metabolism—new research raises the possibility that there may be a drawback to this way of eating.
A pre-existing cardiovascular disease participant’s chance of dying from heart disease and stroke increased by 66% if they consumed all of their calories within an 8 to 10-hour window.
This research implies that there might not be an overall mortality advantage from time-restricted eating, in contrast to earlier studies that found health benefits linked with this eating pattern.
Moreover, cancer patients who did not fast and spread out their daily caloric intake across 16 hours had a decreased chance of dying from the disease.
Take away
However, it’s crucial to recognise the study’s shortcomings. The dietary data gathered during enrollment was based on two 24-hour recalls, which might not be an accurate representation of long-term eating habits.
Furthermore, it is impossible to establish a cause-and-effect link with observational studies such as this one. Experts advise avoiding making hard judgements based solely on these first results. The biases in participant recall of eating habits and variations in baseline characteristics across the fasting groups could affect the outcomes.
To fully comprehend its long-term effects on cardiovascular health and general well-being, more research is required.
