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The interplay between fasting, gut microbiota, and lipid profile.
Abolfazl Mohammadzadeh1, Neda Roshanravan2, Naimeh Mesri Alamdari3
1Student Research Committee, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
International Journal of Clinical Practice
|July 6, 2021
Summary
Ramadan fasting positively impacts gut bacteria, increasing Bacteroides and Firmicutes. This dietary change also improved lipid profiles and reduced BMI, suggesting health benefits.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Human Nutrition
- Metabolic Health
Background:
- Investigating the physiological effects of Ramadan fasting on gut microbiota and metabolic markers.
- Understanding the impact of intermittent fasting on specific gut bacteria and serum metabolites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the influence of Ramadan fasting on gut bacteria (Bacteroides and Firmicutes).
- To assess changes in serum butyrate concentration and lipid profiles during Ramadan.
- To evaluate alterations in body mass index (BMI) and food intake.
Main Methods:
- Studied 30 healthy individuals before and after Ramadan.
- Measured serum butyrate, lipid profile, and fasting blood sugar (FBS).
- Utilized RT-PCR for gut bacteria quantification and food records for dietary assessment.
Main Results:
- Serum butyrate levels significantly increased (0.23 to 0.46 mM).
- Bacteroides and Firmicutes populations rose by 21% and 13%, respectively.
- Significant reductions observed in BMI, LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol.
Conclusions:
- Ramadan fasting promotes beneficial gut bacteria, Bacteroides and Firmicutes.
- These microbial shifts may contribute to improved health outcomes.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings.
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