A new study suggests that restricting eating to an 8-hour window daily could lead to a higher risk of death from heart attack and stroke. The study found that people who followed this time-restricted eating plan had poorer outcomes if they had existing cardiovascular disease or cancer. While the study was observational and cannot prove cause and effect, it adds to the growing body of research on the benefits and drawbacks of time-restricted eating. Specifically, the study looked at individuals practicing 16:8 intermittent fasting, a popular form of time-restricted eating, and found that they had a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death compared to those who did not fast.
The research, which has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal, was presented at the EPI|Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2024 in Chicago. Intermittent fasting has become a trendy way to lose weight, improve cholesterol, boost metabolism, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. However, this study raises doubts about the long-term health benefits of this eating strategy. The researchers analyzed data from 20,000 adults who participated in the NHANES surveys from 2003-2018. They found that participants who practiced 16:8 intermittent fasting were 91% more likely to die from cardiovascular disease. Additionally, individuals with existing cardiovascular disease who restricted their eating to an 8-10 hour window had a 66% higher risk of dying from heart disease and stroke.
While the study had a large sample size and was conducted over an average of 8 years, it had limitations such as relying on two 24-hour dietary recalls at the time of enrollment, which may not accurately reflect long-term dietary patterns. Observational studies, like this one, cannot establish cause and effect. Despite these limitations, experts agree that the findings warrant further investigation. There is a lack of long-term human research on intermittent fasting, making studies like this crucial for understanding the practice. Some experts believe that intermittent fasting may help with short-term weight loss and metabolic markers but might not provide lasting cardiovascular benefits.
Despite the findings of this study, experts maintain that the best dietary approach varies from individual to individual and depends on factors such as medical history, health goals, and lifestyle. Some experts still recommend intermittent fasting for weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and cardiovascular health, while others emphasize the importance of consuming unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods. Until more research, particularly randomized controlled trials, is available, it may be premature to recommend intermittent fasting over other eating patterns. Ultimately, the decision to try intermittent fasting should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider and aligned with personal goals and preferences.
