Intermittent fasting has been all the rage lately, with many touting its short-term benefits for weight loss and overall health. One popular form of intermittent fasting, known as time-restricted eating (TRE), has gained significant popularity as people aim to fast-track their weight loss journey. However, a recent study from China presented at the American Heart Association’s EPI|Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2024 has shed light on some concerning long-term effects of TRE.
The study found that people who followed an 8-hour eating window as part of their TRE regimen had a 91% higher risk of death due to cardiovascular disease. Additionally, restricting the eating window to 8-10 hours a day was associated with a 66% higher risk of death from heart disease or stroke among individuals with existing cardiovascular issues. Surprisingly, there was no significant effect on reducing the risk of an early death from any cause with TRE.
Not only did the study find alarming links between TRE and cardiovascular disease, but it also discovered that individuals who followed TRE had lower lean muscle mass, which is directly linked to cardiovascular mortality. On a positive note, those who extended their eating window to 16 hours or more throughout the day were found to have a reduced risk of dying from cancer.
These findings highlight the importance of a personalized approach to dietary recommendations, especially for those with existing heart conditions or cancer. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the potential risks associated with TRE and to seek medical advice before embarking on such fasting regimens. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these associations and to provide more tailored guidance for individuals based on their health status and scientific evidence.
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