Intermittent Fasting Benefits and Risks: People who already have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart-related problems should take special precautions; apart from this, people who take certain medicines.

Does intermittent fasting increase the risk of heart disease?

Can Intermittent Fasting Increase Heart Disease Risk? These days, fasting isn't just a religious tradition, but it's also become increasingly popular in the fitness world. From methods like the 16:8 diet to eating once a day, people find it an easy way to eat less, lose weight quickly, and feel better. Initially, many people saw benefits, such as weight loss, sugar control, and lower cholesterol. But new research is raising some serious questions about this trend.

What did the research reveal?

A recent analysis of over 20,000 people found that those who ate only eight hours a day or less had a higher risk of death from heart disease. In some cases, this risk was up to 91 percent higher. This doesn't mean that fasting is harmful for everyone, but it certainly challenges the notion that eating less is always better.

What do experts say?

Dr. Divya Ranjan Behera told TOI that prolonged fasting causes several sudden changes in the body. Blood sugar levels fluctuate rapidly, stress hormones increase, and fat levels are also affected. All these changes can put pressure on the heart. Dr. Ditesh M., meanwhile, said that prolonged periods of fasting cause fluctuations in sugar, minerals, and hormones, which can lead to irregular heartbeats.

water shortage

Another major cause is dehydration. When people don't eat for long periods, they often drink less water. This can deplete the body of essential minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are essential for a normal heartbeat. Dr. Sunil Roy TN explains that these mineral deficiencies and dehydration require the heart to work harder to maintain a normal rhythm.

Who should be cautious?

Fasting isn't equally safe for everyone. People with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart problems should exercise special caution. Furthermore, this practice can be risky for those taking certain medications. Even healthy individuals can't ignore body signals. Symptoms like frequent fatigue, dizziness, chest discomfort, or a rapid heartbeat are signs that the body is under increasing stress.

Being overly strict can increase both physical and mental fatigue. Effects like low energy, irritability, and decreased performance gradually become apparent. Therefore, balance is crucial. Fasting itself isn't wrong, but when it's done excessively or without planning, it can become problematic. The best approach is to maintain a balanced diet and consult a doctor before making any major changes.