New Research Links Time-Restricted Eating too Potential Cardiovascular Risks
A recently published study is prompting questions about the long-term heart health impacts of time-restricted eating, a popular dietary approach involving limiting food consumption to a specific window each day. while intermittent fasting has been touted for benefits like weight loss and improved metabolic health, the new research suggests a potential link to increased cardiovascular risk in certain populations.
An accompanying editorial in the same journal, authored by leading endocrinologist Anoop Misra, acknowledges the potential upsides of intermittent fasting, including weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, lower blood pressure, and enhanced lipid profiles, with some evidence of anti-inflammatory benefits. He also notes its simplicity and compatibility with existing cultural or religious practices. However, Misra cautions against potential downsides such as nutrient deficiencies, increased cholesterol, hunger, irritability, headaches, and declining adherence.
“For people with diabetes, unmonitored fasting risks perilous drops in blood sugar; and promotes junk food intake during eating window. For older adults or those with chronic conditions, prolonged fasting may worsen frailty or accelerate muscle loss,” Misra stated.
Previous research has yielded mixed results. A three-month study published in JAMA Internal medicine in 2020 found only modest weight loss among participants, with a portion potentially attributed to muscle loss. Another study indicated potential side effects including weakness, hunger, dehydration, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.The latest findings, according to Misra, add a “more troubling caveat” – a possible connection between time-restricted eating and higher cardiovascular risk, especially in specific groups.
Professor Zhong, the lead researcher of the new study, advises caution for individuals with existing heart disease or diabetes considering an eight-hour eating window. He emphasizes the need for “personalised” dietary advice based on individual health status and evolving evidence.
“Based on the evidence as of now, focusing on what people eat appears to be more important than focusing on the time when they eat. At least, people may consider not to adopt eight-hour eating window for a long time either for the purpose of preventing cardiovascular disease or for improving longevity,” Zhong said.
Experts suggest a focus on dietary quality over strict timing, advocating for a tailored approach to fasting based on individual risk profiles while further research clarifies the long-term effects of time-restricted eating.
