Intermittent Fasting Could Lead to Cardiovascular Risks: AHA

Recent analysis by the American Heart Association suggests intermittent fasting may pose risks, challenging its perceived cardiovascular advantages. Experts analyzed CDC data spanning 2003 to 2018, revealing a 91% higher risk of cardiovascular death in individuals restricting their meals to less than eight hours daily compared to those with a 12 to 16-hour window. This finding underscores the need for further research to understand intermittent fasting's long-term effects on cardiovascular health.

Intermittent fasting, marked by alternating periods of fasting and eating, has garnered attention for its potential health benefits, including weight loss and blood pressure reduction. However, Benjamin Horne, Research Professor, Intermountain Health, suggests that restrictive fasting may trigger stress hormones, potentially elevating short-term heart risks. Insights from Nature’s Fare Market further caution against the pitfalls of restrictive fasting, acknowledging its potential benefits but also its stress-inducing effects on the body, particularly regarding cortisol levels.

Despite these concerns, intermittent fasting has surged in popularity, ranking as the second most searched diet trend in 2022, according to Yahoo in Canada. Celebrity endorsement and weight loss trends like the 5:2 diet have contributed to its widespread appeal. However, Penny Kris-Etherton, Professor of Nutritional Sciences, Penn State University, cautions that the manner in which intermittent fasting is implemented significantly influences its potential benefits or adverse effects.

Adding to the discussion, HealthDirect emphasizes the importance of consulting a doctor before starting intermittent fasting, highlighting the need for personalized medical advice. This consultation enables the doctor to assess overall health and determine whether intermittent fasting is a suitable option, considering individual circumstances.

The implications of intermittent fasting extend beyond global trends to regional contexts, like in Mexico, where cultural traditions and economic factors intersect with dietary choices. Despite grappling with high rates of obesity and related health issues, economic constraints often shape dietary habits in Mexico. Intermittent fasting may thus become a pragmatic response to food insecurity and financial limitations, reflecting a complex interplay of various influences.