Health Benefits of Islamic Intermittent Fasting

Introduction: Islamic fasting is observed by millions of Muslims across the world during the holy month of Ramadan and other specific days of the lunar year. Fasting Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset. Depending on season and geographical location, Muslims maintain fasting for approximately 13-18 hours per day. The present study aimed to review the benefits of Islamic fasting. Methods: This literature review was conducted via searching in databases like Medline, PubMed, PMC, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and reference lists of relevant articles using keywords like health benefits, Islamic fasting, intermittent fasting, alternate-day fasting, time-restricted feeding, and Ramadan intermittent fasting. Results: Islamic fasting could be considered as intermittent fasting as it is similar to alternate-day fasting and time-restricted feeding. Intermittent fasting is associated with numerous health benefits. Conclusion: According to this review, some of the main health benefits of Islamic fasting include weight loss, attenuation of metabolic markers (e.g., insulin resistance, blood glucose, and blood pressure), improved lipid profile, prevention of chronic problems (e.g., obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer), protection against neurodegeneration, and diminished inflammation.