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Chrononutrition in the context of Ramadan: Potential implications
Tomader Ali1, Nader Lessan1,2
1Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews
|October 13, 2023
Summary
Ramadan fasting (RF) alters circadian rhythms and hormonal balance by changing meal timing. This review explores RF
Area of Science:
- Chrononutrition and Circadian Biology
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
Background:
- Healthy Muslims observe daily dawn-to-sunset fasting during Ramadan, a lunar month.
- This practice significantly shifts meal timing, sleep patterns, and consequently, circadian rhythms.
- Changes in hormones like cortisol, melatonin, ghrelin, and leptin are associated with these shifts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on Ramadan fasting (RF).
- To understand the relationship between RF, circadian rhythms, and homeostatic mechanisms.
- To explore the health benefits and unique aspects of RF compared to other intermittent fasting methods.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Ramadan fasting.
- Analysis of research on chrononutrition and its principles.
- Examination of hormonal and circadian rhythm alterations during RF.
Main Results:
- Ramadan fasting significantly impacts circadian rhythms and hormonal profiles.
- Timing of food intake, as per chrononutrition principles, plays a crucial role.
- RF shares similarities with time-restricted eating (TRE) and offers potential health benefits.
Conclusions:
- Ramadan fasting profoundly influences the body's internal clock and hormonal regulation.
- Understanding these changes is key to appreciating the health implications of RF.
- Further research can elucidate the full spectrum of RF's effects on health and well-being.
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