The impact of Ramadan fasting on hematopoiesis, hematological inflammatory parameters, and metabolic processes among athletes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v66.112588Keywords:
Hematological inflammatory parameters, hematopoiesis, metabolic processes, sports nutrition, sports physiologyAbstract
Introduction: Muslim athletes fast from dawn to sunset during the month of Ramadan, prompting research into how this fasting affects their physiology and performance.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Ramadan fasting on anthropometric parameters, hematological and inflammatory markers, and metabolic processes in a cohort of athletes, given the inconsistent findings from previous studies and limited focus on immune system effects.
Methodology: This research was conducted on 15 fasted Jordanian national players who maintained their regular training sessions. Anthropometry, blood elements, inflammatory parameters, lipid profiles, and kidney functions were measured the day before and the day after Ramadan fasting.
Results: Analyses showed that weight, body fat mass, neutrophils, hematological inflammatory parameters, cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein were significantly lower after Ramadan fasting; body mass index, body fat percentage, lean body mass, and blood volume displayed a trend of reduction, while lymphocytes were significantly higher. There were no changes in erythrocyte indices and kidney function tests.
Conclusion: These findings indicate that Ramadan fasting leads to weight loss, improved cardiovascular health, and modification in immune response dynamics in athletes. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects.
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