Yashoda Upreti
A recent study presented at a seminar initiated by the American Heart Association (AHA) has sparked discussion about the potential risks of intermittent fasting. The study suggests that individuals who restrict their daily food intake to an eight-hour window may face a significantly higher risk of heart attack, potentially as high as 91 percent.
The study analyzed data from approximately 20,000 adults who practiced intermittent fasting. This typically involves eating within a 12-to-16-hour window and abstaining for the remaining hours each day. Researchers observed an increased risk of heart disease and cancer among participants.
Experts Urge Caution
It’s important to note that the final results of this study are yet to be released and could be subject to change. Experts are emphasizing that more research is needed before drawing definitive conclusions about the link between intermittent fasting and heart health.
Senior cardiologist Dr. Om Murthy Anil expressed concern about the findings but stressed the need to await the finalized study results. Given the popularity of fasting practices and their perceived health benefits, Dr. Anil advises caution, reassuring that the AHA’s findings will be subject to further discussion and analysis.
