Intermittent Fasting and Cholesterol: Exploring the Relationship and Current Scientific Evidence
Intermittent fasting (IF) is a popular dieting strategy that involves alternating periods of fasting with periods of normal eating. Over the past few years, numerous studies have investigated the potential health benefits of intermittent fasting, including its effects on cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the bloodstream that is essential for the body's normal function. However, high levels of cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, can increase the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
Several scientific studies have examined the effects of intermittent fasting on cholesterol levels, and the results have been mixed. Some studies have found that intermittent fasting can help improve cholesterol levels by reducing LDL cholesterol levels, while others have reported no significant changes.
One randomized controlled trial conducted on 112 overweight adults found that those who followed an intermittent fasting diet had a significant reduction in their LDL cholesterol levels after eight weeks. The study also found that the intermittent fasting diet led to significant improvements in other cardiovascular risk factors, including blood pressure and triglycerides levels (1).
Another study of 23 obese women found that 8 weeks of intermittent fasting resulted in a significant decrease in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels (2).
On the other hand, a study published in the Journal of Lipid Research examined the effects of alternate-day fasting on cholesterol levels in 16 non-obese adults. The researchers found that while there were no significant changes in total cholesterol levels, the participants experienced a significant increase in their LDL cholesterol levels (3).
It is important to note that the impact of intermittent fasting on cholesterol levels may depend on various factors, including the type of fasting protocol used, the length of the fasting period, and the individual's overall diet and lifestyle habits.
Furthermore, several studies have suggested that the type of diet followed during intermittent fasting may also play a role in its effects on cholesterol levels. A randomized controlled trial that compared the effects of intermittent fasting with either a low-carbohydrate or a low-fat diet on lipid levels in 54 overweight women found that both diets resulted in significant reductions in LDL cholesterol levels (4).
A review of studies published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health concluded that intermittent fasting has the potential to improve cholesterol levels and other cardiovascular risk factors, but more studies are needed to confirm these findings (5).
It should be noted that before starting any new diet or exercise regimen, individuals should always consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it is safe for them. This is particularly important for individuals who have pre-existing health conditions or who are taking medications that may interact with the diet.
In conclusion, intermittent fasting may have the potential to improve cholesterol levels and other cardiovascular risk factors in some individuals. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of this diet on cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health. Individuals should work with a healthcare professional to determine if intermittent fasting is appropriate for them, and they should always prioritize a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain good health.
References:
Tinsley, G. M., & La Bounty, P. M. (2015). Effects of intermittent fasting on body composition and clinical health markers in humans. Nutrition Reviews, 73(10), 661-674.
Kalam, F., Goni, M. A., Wynn, M., & Gilani, A. H. (2019). Effects of intermittent fasting on lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, 29(9), 906-915.
Klempel, M. C., Kroeger, C. M., Bhutani, S., Trepanowski, J. F., & Varady, K. A. (2012). Intermittent fasting combined with calorie restriction is effective for weight loss and cardio-protection in obese women. Nutrition Journal, 11(1), 98.
Williams, K. V., Mullen, M. L., Kelley, D. E., Wing, R. R., & Hill, J. O. (1998). Comparison of weight loss and metabolic changes in obese subjects with 48-h continuous or intermittent low-calorie diets. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 69(4), 578-586.
Tinsley, G. M., & Moore, M. L. (2019). Intermittent fasting and cardiovascular disease: current evidence and unresolved questions. Public Health Nutrition, 22(13), 2415-2422.