"Unlocking the Power of Time-Restricted Feeding: A Transformative Journey Against Atherosclerosis in Metabolic Syndrome"

Background: The Framework of Time-Restricted Feeding

Time-Restricted Feeding (TRF) is a form of intermittent fasting, in which one's diet is confined to a specific number of hours within the day. This eating pattern has been proposed to have potential cardiovascular benefits. This study assessed the connection between TRF and arterial stiffness, by measuring pulse wave velocity (PWV), conducting pulse wave analysis, and determining arterial age in individuals diagnosed with metabolic syndrome.

Methods: Utilizing Ramadan as a Fasting Model

In order to gain insight into the effects of TRF, a cohort study was executed, focused on adults with metabolic syndrome over the period of Ramadan fasting. Since food is only permitted for approximately eight hours per day during Ramadan, this period was utilized as a model for TRF. Participants were separated into two groups: those fasting during Ramadan, and those not fasting. Various metrics, such as aortic PWV, central aortic pressure waveform, central systolic pressure, central pulse pressure, and arterial compliance indices, including augmentation pressure and the augmentation index (AIx), were calculated.

Results: Notable Findings in the Fasting Group

The study incorporated ninety-five adults (31.57% female, average age: 45.46 ± 9.10 years) identified with metabolic syndrome according to the International Diabetes Federation. The Ramadan fasting group included 80 individuals, while the non-fasting group consisted of 15 individuals. In the fasting group, significant reductions were observed in several parameters: PWV (0.29 m/s), central systolic pressure (4.03 mmHg), central pulse pressure (2.43 mmHg), central augmentation pressure (1.88 mmHg), and central AIx (2.47). Conversely, these metrics remained unchanged in the non-fasting group.

Conclusions: A Positive Impact on Arterial Health

The study suggests that TRF can result in decreased arterial age and improved arterial stiffness among people living with metabolic syndrome. This suggests that such a dietary strategy could be considered beneficial in enhancing healthspan and potentially longevity.

Alinezhad-Namaghi, M., Eslami, S., Nematy, M., Rezvani, R., Khoshnasab, A., Bonakdaran, S., Philippou, E., & Norouzy, A. (2023). Association of time-restricted feeding, arterial age, and arterial stiffness in adults with metabolic syndrome. Health science reports, 6(7), e1385. https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.1385

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