Does Fasting Affect Your Heart and Blood Pressure?
Can it reduce your blood pressure? Is it healthy for your heart? Is it dangerous in certain situations?
Can eating less strengthen your heart? Research shows that fasting can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, control diabetes and reduce weight. “Four of the major risks for heart disease are high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes and weight, so there’s a secondary impact. If we reduce those, we can reduce the risk of heart disease.” One word of caution, though: Fasting can lead to an electrolyte imbalance. This can make the heart unstable and prone to arrhythmias. “So whenever we prescribe a protein-sparing modified fast diet, we check blood tests monthly and prescribe potassium supplementation to prevent electrolyte imbalance from occurring,” Dr. Ahmed says. Some studies also show that fasting may help prevent cancer or increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy treatment. However, much of the research on fasting is in its preliminary stages. “We have a lot more to learn about fasting.”
Is fasting a good way to lose weight? Although it offers health benefits — including reduced heart disease and weight loss — it’s not really the best way to lose weight. While fasting helps you drop pounds quickly, it doesn’t help you stay in shape. For long-term weight loss, it’s not terrific. The only time we really recommend fasting for weight is if someone needs rapid weight loss, for instance, for surgery. When is fasting not a good idea? Fasting is not safe for everyone — so consult your physician before you begin. Those who should not fast include: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding Children and teenagers People who have type 1 diabetes. Those who have eating disorders. Fasting may also have a negative impact on people with other medical problems. Your doctor can help determine whether it is right for you or not.
What should you know about fasting before you begin? 3 tips
1. There are different methods of fasting. Some people fast for eight hours, 24 hours or longer. Others cut way back on calories for a certain number of days each week or month. The popular “5, 2” plan involves two days of caloric reduction each week. You eat two meals (totaling about 500 calories) on fasting days. On non-fasting days, you follow a healthy diet, but you don’t restrict calories.
2. Meal planning is essential. “You want to make sure you have adequate nutrition before and after the fast.” And when you’re consuming less overall, it’s important to make sure your nutrition is sound when you do eat. Healthy foods to eat before a fast include: Peanut butter Chick peas Other foods high in protein Low-fat yogurt Fruits and vegetables (these are helpful for hydration) Avoid foods that are high in sodium or which may cause bloating, such as canned soup and pizza.
3. Afterward, break your fast slowly. Don’t suddenly start eating everything in sight when you’re done fasting. “You don’t want to shock the system” Instead, it’s best to start by snacking on a few dates or other dried fruit, for instance. Then take a break, and then eat fruit and other light foods at first. “Whether doing a fast for lifestyle or religious reasons, it’s always wise to talk to your doctor first.”
