HN-02100189_Effect of Ramadan Fasting on Resting Metabolic Rate and Body Composition in Overweight/Obese Individuals

Introduction: Ramadan fasting (RF) is a form of calorie restriction, known as intermittent fasting (IF), practiced extensively by a large population of Muslims. There are limited and controversial findings on physiological changes induced following 30 days of RF. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of RF on resting metabolic rate (RMR) and body composition in overweight/obese individuals.Methods: A total 21 men and women aged 18-40 years old participated in this study. Anthropometric and body composition data were collected before and after Ramadan. Assessment of RMR was performed using indirect calorimetry and physical activity level was estimated using pedometer. Total dietary intake was assessed using 24 hours food recall for 4 days.Results: Body weight decreased (77.91 ± 11.83 vs 77.01 ±11.75 kg; p<0.05) and percent body fat (34.84 ± 7.07 vs 38.48 ± 5.93 %; P<0.001) increased after 4 weeks of RF. The RMR was increased clinically while it was not statistically significant (P=0.641). The total fat free mass and visceral fat mas significantly deceased at the end of the study (P<0.001). Mean daily energy intake increased (3290 ±785.82 kcal vs 2458±535.32 p<0.05) among participants. The total carbohydrate and sugar intake increased significantly (437.04 ± 101.02 gr and 194.04 ±56.87gr per day vs 310.09 ± 87.12 gr and 60.42 ±31.57).Conclusions: RF may be useful to improve metabolic parameters and prevent decline in basal metabolic rate if accompanied with nutritional support and healthy dietary recommendations.

کلیدواژه ها:

Body composition ، Obesity ، Ramadan fasting ، Resting Metabolic Rate