Researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine reported findings suggesting that a 16-hour fast followed by an 8-hour eating window may be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The results were shared on the American Heart Association website, placing this study in the spotlight of public health discussions about fasting patterns and heart health.
The study enrolled about 20,000 adults who were observed over time. Investigators collected detailed information about each participant’s eating patterns and weight management strategies, along with data from annual health exams that captured baseline health characteristics. After an initial data collection phase, the participants entered a follow-up period that stretched over two decades, allowing researchers to observe long-term outcomes related to diet and cardiovascular health.
Overall, the analysis found that individuals who adhered to the 16/8 intermittent fasting pattern tended to experience a shorter overall lifespan compared with those who did not follow this eating schedule. The 16/8 approach, characterized by a daily 8-hour window for meals and a 16-hour-fast, has gained popularity as a weight control method, but this study highlights potential longevity trade-offs associated with this specific timing and structure.
Furthermore, the data indicated that adopting such a fasting pattern was associated with a higher likelihood of death from cardiovascular causes. Researchers estimated that following the 16/8 plan could nearly double the risk of experiencing a stroke or a heart attack in the long term. The study did not find evidence that intermittent fasting, as outlined here, provided improvements in other health outcomes over the extended period examined.
A clinician commented on practical safety considerations for individuals choosing to fast, emphasizing that any fasting approach should be undertaken with careful attention to personal health conditions, hydration, nutrient intake, and medical guidance. The discussion underlines the importance of balancing weight management goals with cardiovascular risk and overall well-being, especially for people with existing heart conditions, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses that may interact with fasting practices.