The proponents of intermittent fasting often cite benefits such as weight loss, improved blood sugar, and reduced cholesterol. And there is some scientific evidence to support these claims—a at least in the short term. But what about intermittent fasting’s effects in the long run? And could it actually do more harm than good for the human heart?
The benefits and drawbacks of intermittent fasting for health and wellbeing are hotly debated. There is conflicting data regarding its benefits for weight loss, despite studies showing short-term benefits including lower cholesterol when people eat within a 10- to 12-hour window or an enhanced gut microbiome in obese people.
Additionally, some research has demonstrated that intermittent fasting can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, two heart disease risk factorsTrusted Source. A new paper, however, indicated that eating within an 8-hour window may increase the risk of cardiovascular death by as much as 91%. The poster was presented at the EPI Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2024 in Chicago.