Effect of Ramadan Fasting Alone or in Conjunction with Physical Activity on Hematological Factors and Insulin Resistance in adult Muslims: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar, Iran.

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effect of Ramadan fasting alone or in conjunction with physical exercise on blood hematological factors and insulin resistance in adult Muslims. Six electronic databases (Web of Science, Embase (Ovid), Cochrane Library, PubMed/Medline and Scopus) and Google Scholar were searched, with included studies. We used random-effects models to estimate weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Limitations of the present study include the following: only English-language articles were included in this research. Additionally, there was variability in the types of fasting during the month of Ramadan, measurement conditions, fasting duration, and ambient temperature. Twenty-three studies were included. The meta-analysis found that fasting plus exercise decreased HOMA-IR and white blood cell. Although there was no significant difference between the fasting group and the fasting group with exercise in terms of insulin, fasting blood glucose, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets, the fasting group with exercise demonstrated a more positive effect on these variables compared to the fasting group. Our study displayed that fasting plus exercise decreased HOMA-IR and white blood cell in adults Muslims; in addition, fasting plus exercise did not change insulin, FBG, RBC, Hb, Ht, and Plt levels. Regular physical activity during Ramadan can elucidate the impact of fasting on metabolic health. To improve insulin resistance and hematological indices during Ramadan, paying attention to consistent physical activity combined with a balanced diet proves to be a highly effective strategy. This approach can contribute to enhancing metabolic status and overall health.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Nutrition,Fasting and Health

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 09 April 2025

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  • Receive Date: 26 February 2025
  • Revise Date: 18 March 2025
  • Accept Date: 09 April 2025

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