Intermittent fasting has become popular as a weight-loss strategy in recent years. However, new research presented at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Scientific Sessions 2024 reveals a surprising downside.
According to this study, people who follow the 16/8 intermittent fasting method might have a significantly higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. “However, the long-term health effects of time-restricted eating, including the risk of death from any cause or cardiovascular disease, are unknown”, said Victor Wenze Zhong, a professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine.
Let’s explore the study’s findings to uncover the potential links between intermittent fasting and cardiovascular health issues.
The study and its findings on intermittent fasting
The research analyzed data from over 20,000 U.S. adults, focusing on how their eating schedules impacted cardiovascular health. Participants who followed the 16/8 method were found to have a 91% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared to those who followed more traditional eating patterns. For people with existing cardiovascular conditions, eating only within an 8-10 hour window increased their risk of death by 66%. Time-restricted eating also showed no reduction in overall mortality risk.
While intermittent fasting has been previously linked to improved blood pressure, glucose levels, and cholesterol, these findings suggest potential long-term risks. “We were surprised to find that people who followed an 8-hour, time-restricted eating schedule were more likely to die from cardiovascular disease”, Zhong noted. He emphasized the importance of a cautious and personalized approach to dietary recommendations, particularly for individuals with preexisting health conditions like heart disease or cancer.
Are there any limitations to the study?
The study’s limitations include reliance on self-reported dietary habits, which could be influenced by memory bias. The analysis also did not account for factors such as physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, or the exact foods consumed. Critics have highlighted that these variables are critical to fully understanding the risks associated with intermittent fasting.
Experts unaffiliated with the study have urged caution. “It is impossible to say if how a person restricts the time that they eat is linked to risk of health outcomes, as this abstract is suggesting”, said Duane Mellor, a registered dietitian and senior lecturer at Aston Medical School. Mellor explained that underlying factors like stress or socioeconomic conditions could influence both eating habits and cardiovascular health.
While intermittent fasting continues to be a popular dieting method, this research highlights the importance of considering individual health conditions and lifestyle factors. “Although the study identified an association between an 8-hour eating window and cardiovascular death, this does not mean that time-restricted eating caused cardiovascular death“, Zhong clarified. Future studies aim to explore the reasons behind these findings and whether similar trends are observed globally.
For now, individuals considering intermittent fasting should consult with healthcare professionals to ensure their dietary choices align with their overall health and wellness goals. The study serves as a reminder that what works for one person may not be suitable for another, particularly when managing chronic conditions or cardiovascular risk factors.
