We were surprised to find that those who restricted their eating time to within eight hours per day had higher risk of cardiovascular death.
Intermittent fasting, particularly the popular eight-hour time-restricted eating pattern, has gained traction as an effective weight-loss strategy. However, new research is raising concerns about possible long-term effects on heart health. A large study analyzing data from over 20,000 U.S. adults found that participants who limited eating to less than eight hours a day had a 91% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular causes compared to those who ate over 12 to 16 hours daily.
Dr. Victor Wenze Zhong, the study’s senior author, said, “We were surprised to find that those who restricted their eating time to within eight hours per day had higher risk of cardiovascular death.” Experts caution that the study is observational, relied on limited self-reported data, and does not prove cause and effect.
Meanwhile, shorter-term clinical trials continue to show intermittent fasting may help with modest weight loss and improvements in cholesterol, blood pressure, and insulin response. Doctors recommend a cautious, personalized approach until more conclusive evidence emerges.