We already know how weight loss is one goal most of us chase, and while there are many strategies doing the rounds online, not everything is effective. Also, there are some solutions that can help to tackle health issues. Any guesses? Yes, we are speaking about intermittent fasting. In a nutshell, it means eating during certain hours of the day. But is it safe to practice intermittent fasting when you have high blood pressure?
The answer is yes. In her recent Instagram post, celeb nutritionist Dr Anjali Mukerjee spoke about how you can safely do intermittent fasting, even if they suffer from high blood pressure. In fact, there are several research studies that show that this type of fasting can help improve your heart and overall health by bringing down your blood pressure, insulin, and blood sugar levels.
Dr Mukerjee also revealed that those with high blood pressure suffer from metabolic syndrome, especially in the case of those who are overweight.
A 2020 study published in the journal Cell Metabolism testified to the fact that intermittent fasting helped women with metabolic syndrome. When the women ate within a 10-hour window during the day, they had lower blood pressure, less cholesterol, and fewer blood sugar spikes. In fact, intermittent fasting can also lower chronic inflammation.
Check out her Instagram post right here!
Is there a link between intermittent fasting and low blood pressure?
As per a study, in which there was participation from 1422 people who fasted for 4-21 days, blood pressure levels were decreased. That’s because fasting is said to increase parasympathetic activity, which is also referred to as the ‘rest and digest state’. This is what helps to lower blood pressure.
There was another study that took into account 32 adults, who followed alternate-day fasting. This habit helped to decrease their blood pressure, as compared to non-fasters. They ate 400-600 calories on their fasting day and whatever they desired on the other days.
That’s not all — in 2018, Nutrition and Aging published a study of 23 adults on a 16:8 fasting regimen, which also showed lower blood pressure.
What else to keep in mind before taking up intermittent fasting?
Fasting isn’t appropriate for everyone. Do not go for it, if:
* You have a history of eating disorders
* You are pregnant or breastfeeding
* You are over 65
* You are under 18
* You have a history of low blood pressure.
* You take medication
