Review on the effects of fasting on cardiac patients

Abstract

Fasting in Ramadan involves the cessation of food, water, and other behaviors from dawn to sunset, creating a unique physiological stressor that might have a potentially injurious or beneficial effect on cardiac patients. Its impact should be known so as to optimize patient care. The aim of this paper is to review the literature relating to the effects of Ramadan fasting on cardiac health, with particular regard to high-risk patient management, medication adherence, and life-style modifications. Available data suggests that fasting in Ramadan is safe for stable cardiac patients, with improvements in BMI, lipid profiles, blood pressure, and others. However, high-risk groups, including patients with recent myocardial infarction or severe heart failure, were considered inappropriate for fasting. Additionally, medication adjustments and lifestyle changes regarding balanced diets and hydration strategies are necessary to make fasting safe in cardiac patients who are candidate for fasting patients. These findings support the need for future tailored fasting plans and evidence-based guidelines to optimize outcomes in cardiac patients.