A new study suggests that intermittent fasting could be a beneficial, non-drug approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in postmenopausal women who are overweight or obese. The research, published on January 18 in Scientific Reports, found that fasting not only improved inflammatory markers but also had positive effects on metabolism.
The Study and Its Findings
Researchers from the Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran conducted the study with 44 postmenopausal women diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: one followed a 16:8 intermittent fasting plan (eating only during an 8-hour window and fasting for 16 hours), while the other group continued their usual diet.
After the study period, the researchers observed notable improvements in the fasting group, including:
- Reduced inflammation: Lower levels of malondialdehyde (a marker of oxidative stress) and a reduced neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, both linked to decreased inflammation.
- Better antioxidant activity: Increased catalase levels, an enzyme that helps protect cells from damage.
- Improved liver function: Significant reductions in two liver enzymes (aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase), which are often elevated in people with RA and metabolic issues.
These results suggest that intermittent fasting may help control not only RA symptoms but also associated metabolic complications.
A Potential Alternative Therapy
The authors of the study conclude that intermittent fasting could be a valuable non-pharmacological approach for managing rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in postmenopausal women with excess weight.
While medications remain essential for controlling RA, dietary interventions like fasting might offer additional benefits by reducing inflammation and improving overall health.
However, the researchers emphasize that more studies are needed to understand the long-term effects and exact mechanisms behind these benefits. If future research confirms these findings, intermittent fasting could become a widely recommended strategy for RA management, alongside traditional treatments.
The research findings can be found in Scientific Reports.
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