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Ghashang SK, Suwandi A, Buettner M, Hamdan I, Grassl GA, Gutenbrunner C, Nugraha B. Alterations in anthropometric, inflammatory and mental health parameters during Ramadan intermittent fasting in a group of healthy people: a prospective cohort study. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1298281. [PMID: 38362105 PMCID: PMC10867316 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1298281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Fasting has been practiced with different time span in different areas of the world and for various reasons. One of the types of fasting regimens is Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF), which is described as intermittent dry fasting and known as the most commonly practiced form of religious fasting. Different studies have shown its effects on body composition parameters and mental health, fatigue and quality of life (QoL). Elucidating the relationship of RIF on biological parameters would also be of importance to show its mechanism. Therefore, we evaluated several biological mediators related to mental health, such as ß-nerve growth factor (ß-NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and matrix-metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). This study consisted of fasting (FG; n = 25) and non-fasting group (NFG; n = 25). Four different time points were assessed for FG: one week before (T1), mid (T2), last days (T3), and one week after (T4) RIF. T1 and T3 were the assessment time points for NFG. Biological mediators were determined from serum samples by using Human Magnetic Luminex and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, we then performed correlation analyses between biological mediators and our previously published clinical parameters including body composition and mental health parameters at all time points. Significant alterations were shown in FG for ß-NGF (T2vsT3, p < 0.05; T2vsT4, p < 0.05), GDNF (T1vsT4, p < 0.05; T2vsT4, p < 0.05), IL-8 (T2vsT3, p < 0.05; T3vsT4, p < 0.05), TNF-α (T1vsT3, p < 0.05; T1vsT4, p < 0.001; T2vsT4, p < 0.001), and MMP-9 (T1vsT4, p < 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences between FG and NFG in all biological mediators at T1 and T3. Correlation analysis showed that MMP-9 levels had negative correlation with body mass index (BMI) at T3. At T3 BDNF levels had negative correlation with Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) as one of measured QoL parameters. ß-NGF, GDNF, TNF-α, and MMP-9 had positive correlation with some of body composition and mental health parameters. Findings demonstrate that RIF altered different biological mediators could give benefit to health. Its benefit is mediated by the alteration of biological mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Khosandam Ghashang
- Department of Rehabilitation and Sport Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Johannes Wesling Medical Centre, Minden, Germany
| | - Abdulhadi Suwandi
- Institute of Cell Biochemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner-Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
| | - Manuela Buettner
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Imad Hamdan
- Department of Rehabilitation and Sport Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Guntram A. Grassl
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner-Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christoph Gutenbrunner
- Department of Rehabilitation and Sport Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Hannover Rehabilitation Services and Science Consulting, Hannover, Germany
| | - Boya Nugraha
- Department of Rehabilitation and Sport Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Hannover Rehabilitation Services and Science Consulting, Hannover, Germany
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Alkurd R, Mahrous L, Zeb F, Khan MAB, Alhaj H, Khraiwesh HM, Faris ME. Effect of Calorie Restriction and Intermittent Fasting Regimens on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels and Cognitive Function in Humans: A Systematic Review. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:191. [PMID: 38276070 PMCID: PMC10819730 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Background: The potential positive interaction between intermittent fasting (IF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on cognitive function has been widely discussed. This systematic review tried to assess the efficacy of interventions with different IF regimens on BDNF levels and their association with cognitive functions in humans. Interventions with different forms of IF such as caloric restriction (CR), alternate-day fasting (ADF), time-restricted eating (TRE), and the Ramadan model of intermittent fasting (RIF) were targeted. Methods: A systematic review was conducted for experimental and observational studies on healthy people and patients with diseases published in EMBASE, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases from January 2000 to December 2023. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statements (PRISMA) for writing this review. Results: Sixteen research works conducted on healthy people and patients with metabolic disorders met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. Five studies showed a significant increase in BDNF after the intervention, while five studies reported a significant decrease in BDNF levels, and the other six studies showed no significant changes in BDNF levels due to IF regimens. Moreover, five studies examined the RIF protocol, of which, three studies showed a significant reduction, while two showed a significant increase in BDNF levels, along with an improvement in cognitive function after RIF. Conclusions: The current findings suggest that IF has varying effects on BDNF levels and cognitive functions in healthy, overweight/obese individuals and patients with metabolic conditions. However, few human studies have shown that IF increases BDNF levels, with controversial results. In humans, IF has yet to be fully investigated in terms of its long-term effect on BDNF and cognitive functions. Large-scale, well-controlled studies with high-quality data are warranted to elucidate the impact of the IF regimens on BDNF levels and cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Refat Alkurd
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman 11196, Jordan;
| | - Lana Mahrous
- Department of Health Sciences/Track of Clinical Nutrition, College of Health and Rehabilitation, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 12461, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Falak Zeb
- Nutrition and Food Research Group, Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Moien AB Khan
- Health and Wellness Research Group, Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Hamid Alhaj
- Family and Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Husam M. Khraiwesh
- Department of Nutrition and Food Processing, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Al-Balqa Applied University, Salt 19117, Jordan;
| | - MoezAlIslam E. Faris
- Nutrition and Food Research Group, Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates;
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Healthy Aging, Longevity and Sustainability Research Group, Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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Braz AF, Figueira de Oliveira ML, da Costa DHS, Torres-Leal FL, Guedes RCA. Treadmill Exercise Reverses the Adverse Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Behavior and Cortical Spreading Depression in Young Rats. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1726. [PMID: 38137174 PMCID: PMC10742290 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Intermittent fasting (IF) and physical exercise (PE) have beneficial psychological and physiological effects, improving memory and anxiety-like behavior. However, the impact of this combination on brain electrophysiological patterns is unknown. We aimed to evaluate the behavior and parameters of a brain excitability-related phenomenon named cortical spreading depression (CSD) in young rats (31-87 days of life) submitted to IF and treadmill PE for eight weeks. Sixty-four male and female Wistar rats aged 24 days were randomized into control, IF, PE, and IF+PE groups. Behavioral tests (open field (OF), object recognition, and elevated plus maze (EPM)) were performed, and the CSD propagation features were recorded. IF caused behavioral responses indicative of anxiety (lower number of entries and time spent in the OF center and EPM open arms). IF also reduced the discrimination index for object recognition memory tests and increased the propagation velocity of CSD. PE rats displayed more entries into the OF center and lowered CSD propagation speed. Data suggest that IF worsens anxiety-like behavior and memory and accelerates CSD in young rats. In contrast, PE reverted the unfavorable effects of IF. The brain effects of IF and PE at younger ages are recommended for study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Ferraz Braz
- Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, PE, Brazil
| | | | | | - Francisco Leonardo Torres-Leal
- Metabolic Diseases, Exercise and Nutrition Research Group (DOMEN), Department of Biophysics and Physiology, Federal University of Piauí, Teresina 64049-550, PI, Brazil
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Widhani A, Yunihastuti E, Setiati S, Witjaksono F, Karjadi TH. Ramadan fasting reduces high-sensitivity C-reactive protein among HIV-infected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy. Front Nutr 2023; 9:964797. [PMID: 36687703 PMCID: PMC9852883 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.964797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Inflammatory conditions and oxidative stress increase in HIV infection, and inflammation increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Ramadan fasting is known to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic patients. This study examined the effects of Ramadan fasting on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels and total antioxidant status (TAOS) in HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Methods This was a prospective cohort study comparing HIV-infected patients on stable ART who fasted throughout Ramadan to HIV-infected patients who did not fast during Ramadan. Inclusion criteria were men aged 20-40 years, taking first-line ART for at least 6 months, Muslims intent to fast for Ramadan, no current hospitalization because of acute conditions and not being treated for opportunistic infections. Results After 2 weeks, hs-CRP had decreased significantly in the fasting group (-0.41 mg/L [IQR = -1; 0.10]) compared to the non-fasting group (0.20 mg/L [IQR = -0.30; 1.50]) (p = 0.004). The linear regression analysis has shown that Ramadan fasting contributed to 10.10% of the variance in hs-CRP value (R 2 = 0.101) and decreased its value by 0.317 points (B = -0.317). Changes in TAOS did not significantly different (p = 0.405) between the fasting group (0.05 mmol/L [IQR = -0.03; 0.12]) and the non-fasting group (0.04 mmol/L [IQR = -0.13; 0.36]). In the fasting group, there were significant changes in polyunsaturated fatty acid consumption (p = 0.029), body weight (p = 0.001), cigarette smoking (p = 0.001), and sleeping duration (p = 0.001). Conclusion Ramadan fasting reduces hs-CRP concentrations among HIV patients on ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvina Widhani
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia,HIV Integrated Clinic, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia,*Correspondence: Alvina Widhani,
| | - Evy Yunihastuti
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia,HIV Integrated Clinic, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Siti Setiati
- Geriatric Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia,Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Evidence Based Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Fiastuti Witjaksono
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Teguh H. Karjadi
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Universitas Indonesia, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia,HIV Integrated Clinic, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Central Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia
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Fasting in mood disorders and its potential therapeutic aspects -narrative review. CURRENT PROBLEMS OF PSYCHIATRY 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/cpp-2022-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Fasting is defined as a period of voluntary abstinence from eating food for religious, therapeutic or political reasons, which is associated with a reduction in the supply of sources (kilocalories) to the body. There are different types of fasting, including short, long or intermittent fasting. It has been shown that the use of different types of fasting can influence the occurrence of mood disorders. The aim of this review was to search for the relationship between the use of fasting and mood disorders and its potential use as a therapeutic method.
Material and method: The available literature was reviewed by searching the PubMed and Google Scholar databases using the following keywords: fasting, intermittent fasting, mood disorders, depression, Ramadan, for studies listed from database inception to November 2021.
Results: A review of the collected scientific articles indicates that the dietary restrictions, including both daily restriction of caloric consumption and the use of intermittent fasting (IF), has potentially numerous health benefits in the co-treatment of mental diseases. However, due to conflicting results, further clinical trials in mentally ill people should be conducted. It is worth remembering that among patients with mental illnesses there are somatically ill. IF in these people may require additional nutritional modifications or discontinuation of therapy.
Conclusions: Dietary restriction and fasting are promising methods in co-therapy of mood disorders treatment. However, implementing therapy needs earlier individual evaluation of their benefits and risk, the same as patient’s feasibility of implementing this type of intervention.
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Ben Ammar H, Ben Massoued R, Ben Hamadi A, Khelifa E, Hakiri A, El Hechmi Z. Hospitalizations in psychiatry during the month of Ramadan: A study at the Tunisian mental health hospital. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022; 68:341-345. [PMID: 33455506 DOI: 10.1177/0020764020988888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Muslims fast each year during the Holy Month of Ramadan. This rite has major socio-cultural consequences. The circadian rhythms, energy expenditure, body temperature and biological clock are also influenced by Ramadan fasting. The impact of fasting on patients with mental disorders has been little studied. The aim of this study was to assess the number of hospitalizations in psychiatry during Ramadan compared to the other months of the lunar year. METHOD A cross-sectional and retrospective study was conducted at Razi hospital, the psychiatric hospital in Tunis. The following data over the five lunar years (1434-1438) was checked for: The monthly and the annual number of hospitalizations in the different departments of Razi mental health hospital in Tunis as well as the monthly and annual rates of different legal modalities of admissions. RESULTS An important decrease in the number of hospitalizations during Ramadan was observed each year followed by a constant increase during the following month.Ramadan was the only lunar month to have had a consistently below-average number of admissions. There has been a significant increase in the mean number of hospitalizations per month over the years. A general trend towards an increase in the proportion of enforced hospitalizations has been noted. CONCLUSION Ramadan stands out not only on a religious but also on a social level. Our results add support to the usefulness of research on mental health and Ramadan in the psychiatric community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanen Ben Ammar
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia.,Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Rihab Ben Massoued
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia.,Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Asma Ben Hamadi
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia.,Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Emira Khelifa
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia.,Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Abir Hakiri
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia.,Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Zouhaier El Hechmi
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia.,Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia
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Lang X, Liu Q, Fang H, Zhou Y, Forster MT, Li Z, Zhang X. The prevalence and clinical correlates of metabolic syndrome and cardiometabolic alterations in 430 drug-naive patients in their first episode of schizophrenia. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:3643-3652. [PMID: 34586464 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05983-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Although metabolic abnormalities and metabolic syndrome (MetS) have been extensively investigated in schizophrenia, few studies have examined them in first-episode drug-naive (FEDN) patients. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and clinical correlates of metabolic abnormalities in FEDN schizophrenia patients. METHODS A total of 430 FEDN schizophrenia patients and 453 controls were recruited. Various parameters were measured including BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid profiles, blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). RESULTS Patients had a higher prevalence of MetS, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, hypo-HDL-C, elevated HAb1c, and elevated insulin than controls (19.1% vs. 6.6%, OR = 2.52; 33.3% vs. 12.1%, OR = 3.05; 30.5% vs. 16.1%, OR = 2.25; 43.1% vs. 24.0%, OR = 2.21; 25.6% vs. 10.8%, OR = 2.62; 9.1% vs. 0.9%, OR = 10.29; all pBonferroni < 0.001). Waist circumference was associated with PANSS general psychopathology and total score (correlation coefficient r = 0.17, pBonferroni < 0.001; correlation coefficient r = 0.16, pBonferroni = 0.004). Fasting glucose was associated with PANSS negative, general psychopathology, and total score (correlation coefficient r = 0.13, pBonferroni = 0.03; correlation coefficient r = 0.19, pBonferroni < 0.001; correlation coefficient r = 0.20, pBonferroni < 0.001). BMI (OR = 1.37), smoking (OR = 3.39), and HOMA-IR (OR = 5.60) were associated with MetS in FEDN schizophrenia (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that MetS and metabolic abnormalities co-existed in the early stages of schizophrenia without antipsychotics. Waist circumference and glucose were associated with psychopathological symptoms, while BMI, smoking, and HOMA-IR were associated with MetS in FEDN schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoe Lang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Clinical Medical College, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qinqin Liu
- Qingdao Mental Health Center, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hanliu Fang
- Qingdao Mental Health Center, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yongjie Zhou
- Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Mattew T Forster
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zezhi Li
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, Guangzhou, 510370, China.
| | - Xiangyang Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 36 Mingxin Road, Guangzhou, 510370, China.
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 16 Lincui Road, Chaoyang District, 100101, Beijing, China.
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Gudden J, Arias Vasquez A, Bloemendaal M. The Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Brain and Cognitive Function. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13093166. [PMID: 34579042 PMCID: PMC8470960 DOI: 10.3390/nu13093166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of diet and the gut-brain axis for brain health and cognitive function is increasingly acknowledged. Dietary interventions are tested for their potential to prevent and/or treat brain disorders. Intermittent fasting (IF), the abstinence or strong limitation of calories for 12 to 48 h, alternated with periods of regular food intake, has shown promising results on neurobiological health in animal models. In this review article, we discuss the potential benefits of IF on cognitive function and the possible effects on the prevention and progress of brain-related disorders in animals and humans. We do so by summarizing the effects of IF which through metabolic, cellular, and circadian mechanisms lead to anatomical and functional changes in the brain. Our review shows that there is no clear evidence of a positive short-term effect of IF on cognition in healthy subjects. Clinical studies show benefits of IF for epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis on disease symptoms and progress. Findings from animal studies show mechanisms by which Parkinson’s disease, ischemic stroke, autism spectrum disorder, and mood and anxiety disorders could benefit from IF. Future research should disentangle whether positive effects of IF hold true regardless of age or the presence of obesity. Moreover, variations in fasting patterns, total caloric intake, and intake of specific nutrients may be relevant components of IF success. Longitudinal studies and randomized clinical trials (RCTs) will provide a window into the long-term effects of IF on the development and progress of brain-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jip Gudden
- Department of Psychiatry, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (A.A.V.)
| | - Alejandro Arias Vasquez
- Department of Psychiatry, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (A.A.V.)
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam Bloemendaal
- Department of Psychiatry, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (J.G.); (A.A.V.)
- Correspondence:
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Kalejahi P, Kheirouri S, Noorazar SG, Sanayei M. The relationship between brain-derived neurotrophic factor and metabolic syndrome in patients with chronic schizophrenia: A systematic review. Neuropeptides 2021; 87:102135. [PMID: 33812160 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Schizophrenia is a serious long-term disorder in which the metabolic complications and abnormalities of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can be found. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of the relationship between BDNF, metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components in schizophrenic patients. METHODS Data were collected mainly from PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and ProQuest databases. The keywords related to the BDNF, MetS, schizophrenia were searched. Two reviewers independently screened 1061 abstracts. And eventually, a total of 7 studies (6 observational and 1 interventional) was included in the systematic reviews. RESULTS Four of the 7 study ascertained statistically significant inverse relationship between serum BDNF levels and MetS in schizophrenic patients. While in the other two studies, there was no inverse relationship. In the last selected study, the researchers found a weak association between the Val66Met polymorphism in BDNF Gene and clozapine-induced MetS. CONCLUSION Although this relationship could not be determined but BDNF levels appear to be reduced in schizophrenic patients with MetS and factors such as sex and antipsychotic class differentiation, sampling and methodology and episodes of illness could play a role in the results and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parinaz Kalejahi
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sorayya Kheirouri
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Seyyed Gholamreza Noorazar
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahzad Sanayei
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Abdulsada MM, Wilhelm ZR, Opekun AR, Devaraj S, Jalal PK, Mindikoglu AL. The effect of four-week intermittent fasting from dawn to sunset on circulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in subjects with metabolic syndrome and healthy subjects. Metabol Open 2020; 9:100070. [PMID: 33376976 PMCID: PMC7758552 DOI: 10.1016/j.metop.2020.100070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key neurotrophin that regulates food intake and energy hemostasis. BDNF also promotes neurogenesis, neuroplasticity, and neuroprotection. There are conflicting reports regarding how intermittent fasting affects circulating BDNF levels. We tested the hypothesis that 4-week intermittent fasting from dawn to sunset (4-week-IF) would decrease circulating BDNF levels in subjects with metabolic syndrome and healthy subjects. Methods We conducted pilot studies in subjects with metabolic syndrome and healthy subjects who fasted from dawn to sunset for more than 14 h for four consecutive weeks. We measured serum BDNF levels and metabolic parameters before 4-week-IF, at the end of 4th week during 4-week-IF, and one week after 4-week-IF. Results We enrolled 28 subjects, 14 with metabolic syndrome (women/men:6/8) with a mean age of 59 years and 14 healthy subjects (women/men:1/13) with a mean age of 32 years. Overall, BDNF levels decreased at the end of 4th week during 4-week-IF compared with the levels before 4-week-IF (mean paired difference = −98.5 ng/ml, P = 0.0006). When subjects with metabolic syndrome were compared with healthy subjects, subjects with metabolic syndrome had a lower mean paired reduction in BDNF levels at the end of 4th week during 4-week-IF compared with the levels before 4-week-IF (BDNF mean paired difference = −27.6 ng/ml vs. −169.5 ng/ml, P = 0.003). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed a positive correlation between the change in tumor necrosis factor-alpha and change in BDNF levels at the end of 4th week during 4-week-IF compared with the levels before 4-week-IF in subjects with metabolic syndrome (P = 0.040) and healthy subjects (P = 0.007). The change in weight and body mass index independently predicted the change in BDNF levels 1 week after 4-week-IF compared with the levels before 4-week-IF in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Conclusion Four-week-IF resulted in a reduction in the BDNF levels at the end of 4th week during 4-week-IF. Higher BDNF levels and a lower reduction in BDNF levels at the end of 4th week during 4-week-IF compared with the levels before 4-week-IF in subjects with metabolic syndrome than healthy subjects suggest a potential BDNF resistance similar to insulin and leptin resistance in metabolic syndrome. A positive correlation between the change in BDNF and change in tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels at the end of 4th week during 4-week-IF compared with the levels before 4-week-IF suggests that BDNF is a biomarker of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in addition to its neurotrophic and anorexigenic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa M Abdulsada
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zoe R Wilhelm
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Antone R Opekun
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sridevi Devaraj
- Clinical Chemistry and Point of Care Technology, Texas Children's Hospital and Health Centers, Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Prasun K Jalal
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ayse L Mindikoglu
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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11
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Teasdale SB, Ward PB, Samaras K, Firth J, Stubbs B, Tripodi E, Burrows TL. Dietary intake of people with severe mental illness: systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Psychiatry 2019; 214:251-259. [PMID: 30784395 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.2019.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe mental illness (SMI) is thought to be associated with lower diet quality and adverse eating behaviours contributing towards physical health disparities. A rigorous review of the studies looking at dietary intake in psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder is lacking.AimsTo conduct a systematic, comprehensive evaluation of the published research on dietary intake in psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder. METHOD Six electronic databases were searched for studies reporting on dietary intakes in psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder. Dietary-assessment methods, and dietary intakes, were systematically reviewed. Where possible, data was pooled for meta-analysis and compared with healthy controls. RESULTS In total, 58 eligible studies were identified. People with SMI were found to have significantly higher dietary energy (mean difference 1332 kJ, 95% CI 487-2178 kJ/day, P = 0.002, g = 0.463) and sodium (mean difference 322 mg, 95% CI 174-490 mg, P < 0.001, g = 0.414) intake compared with controls. Qualitative synthesis suggested that higher energy and sodium intakes were associated with poorer diet quality and eating patterns. CONCLUSIONS These dietary components should be key targets for preventative interventions to improve weight and other physical health outcomes in people with SMI.Declaration of interestS.B.T. and E.T. have clinical dietitian appointments within the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District and do not receive any further funding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott B Teasdale
- Senior Mental Health Dietitian,Keeping the Body in Mind Program,South Eastern Sydney Local Health District; andSchool of Psychiatry,University of New South Wales,Australia
| | - Philip B Ward
- Professor of Psychiatry,School of Psychiatry,University of New South Wales;Schizophrenia Research Unit,South Western Sydney Local Health District; and Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research,Australia
| | - Katherine Samaras
- Senior Staff Specialist (Endocrinology),Department of Endocrinology,St Vincent's Hospital; Diabetes and Metabolism Division,Garvan Institute of Medical Research; andSt Vincent's Clinical School,University of New South Wales,Australia
| | - Joseph Firth
- Senior Research Fellow, NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Australia; andDivision of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health,University of Manchester,UK
| | - Brendon Stubbs
- Head of Physiotherapy,Physiotherapy Department,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust; andHealth Service and Population Research Department and Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience,King's College London,UK
| | - Elise Tripodi
- Mental Health Dietitian,Keeping the Body in Mind Program,South Eastern Sydney Local Health District,Australia
| | - Tracy L Burrows
- Associate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics,School of Health Sciences and Priority Research Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition,University of Newcastle,Australia
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12
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Zimhony N, Abu-Salameh I, Sagy I, Dizitzer Y, Oxman L, Yitshak-Sade M, Novack V, Horev A, Ifergane G. Increase in Ischemic Stroke Incident Hospitalizations Among Bedouin Arabs During Ramadan Month. J Am Heart Assoc 2018; 7:JAHA.117.008018. [PMID: 29728012 PMCID: PMC6015316 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.117.008018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Previous studies have not shown any significant effect on stroke incidence during Ramadan. We aimed to investigate the association between ischemic stroke incident hospitalizations and Ramadan, accounting for seasonality and temperature. Methods and Results This retrospective cohort study included all patients admitted with acute ischemic stroke to Soroka University Medical Center from June 2012 to June 2016. We obtained daily mean temperatures and relative humidity rates from 2 monitoring stations in South Israel. We analyzed the association between stroke incidence and Ramadan month, adjusting for weekly temperature and seasonality using Poisson regression models. We compared the first versus the last Ramadan fortnight. We performed an effect specificity analysis by assessing stroke incidence in the non‐Bedouin population. We identified 4727 cases of ischemic stroke, 564 cases of which were Bedouin Arabs. Fifty‐one cases occurred during Ramadan. Ramadan was significantly associated with an increased risk for ischemic stroke (RR 1.48; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–2.09), mainly during the first fortnight (RR 1.73, 95% confidence interval, 1.13–2.66) when compared with non‐Ramadan periods. Mean weekly temperatures and the summer season were not associated with stroke incidence among Bedouin Arabs (RR 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.82–1.18 and RR 0.77; confidence interval 0.56–1.06 accordingly). Such association was not observed in the non‐Bedouin population. Conclusion The Ramadan month, particularly in its first 2 weeks, is an independent and ethnicity specific risk factor for ischemic stroke hospitalizations among the Bedouin Arab fasting population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Zimhony
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ibrahim Abu-Salameh
- Department of Neurology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Iftach Sagy
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Yotam Dizitzer
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Liat Oxman
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Maayan Yitshak-Sade
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Department of Environmental Health, Exposure, Epidemiology, and Risk Program, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Victor Novack
- Clinical Research Center, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Anat Horev
- Department of Neurology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Gal Ifergane
- Department of Neurology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel .,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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13
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A systematic review on the effect of Ramadan on mental health: minor effects and no harm in general, but increased risk of relapse in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.2478/gp-2018-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Globally, Moslems are the second largest religious group. During the month of Ramadan from dawn to sundown, healthy Moslems are required to refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, sexual activity and harmful behaviour towards others and themselves. Thus Ramadan may change individual physical states and social interactions. Both might affect mental health within society. Consequently, this systematic review looks at the various effects of Ramadan on mental health.
Methods
A literature search on Ramadan and mental health initially identified 294 papers. We finally selected all 22 relevant papers covering Ramadan and mental health from which study data were extracted.
Results
Relevant papers focussed on the general population and healthy volunteers, on subjects practising sports, on subjects with severe physical disorders, on subjects at risk of eating disorders and on subjects with mental health disorders. The effects of Ramadan on mental well-being were mixed. Positive and negative effects were usually minor, except in subjects with schizophrenia and metabolic syndrome, and in subjects with bipolar disorder who suffered a substantial increase of relapses.
Conclusion
Ramadan fasting is safe in most conditions and disorders, but caution is required in subjects with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The research on mental health and Ramadan would profit from larger studies with more representative samples to help understand the intra-individual and social factors that affect the mental health and well-being in patients and in society. The scientific potential of such studies may have been overlooked in the psychiatric community.
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14
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Adawi M, Watad A, Brown S, Aazza K, Aazza H, Zouhir M, Sharif K, Ghanayem K, Farah R, Mahagna H, Fiordoro S, Sukkar SG, Bragazzi NL, Mahroum N. Ramadan Fasting Exerts Immunomodulatory Effects: Insights from a Systematic Review. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1144. [PMID: 29230208 PMCID: PMC5712070 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims as a month of fasting. All Muslim adults are expected to fast; nevertheless certain subgroups, including sick, frail subjects, and pregnant women, among others, are exempted. Ramadan fasting has been shown to impact on body systems in different manners. The influence of Ramadan fasting on immune system regulation remains elusive; however, immune system changes, such as the modulation of body response to various infectious, stressful, and other harmful events, are of great interest during fasting. In this paper, we performed an extensive systematic literature review of different scholarly databases (ISI/Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed,/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Directory of Open Access Journals, EbscoHOST, Scirus, Science Direct, the Cochrane Library, and ProQuest), using the following key words: "fasting," "Ramadan," "Islam," and "immunity." Conclusions drawn from these findings included: (1) Ramadan fasting has been shown to only mildly influence the immune system and the alterations induced are transient, returning to basal pre-Ramadan status shortly afterward. (2) Ramadan fasting during the second trimester of pregnancy was shown to be safe and did not result in negative fetal outcomes, or maternal oxidative status alterations. (3) In cardiac patients, Ramadan fasting can have beneficial effects including lipid profile improvement and alleviation of oxidative stress. (4) In asthmatic patients as well as in patients with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and autoimmune disorders, fasting was safe. (5) In psychiatric patients, such as those suffering from schizophrenia, fasting could increase immunologic markers. (6) Fasting Muslim athletes who maintain intensive training schedule during Ramadan showed fluctuations of immunologic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Adawi
- Padeh and Ziv Hospitals, Bar-Ilan Faculty of Medicine, Zefat, Israel
| | - Abdulla Watad
- Department of Medicine 'B', The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Stav Brown
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Khadija Aazza
- Faculty of Sciences Dhar Mahraz, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Hicham Aazza
- Faculty of Literature and Humanistic Studies, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Zouhir
- Faculty of Literature and Humanistic Studies, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Kassem Sharif
- Department of Medicine 'B', The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Khaled Ghanayem
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Raymond Farah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ziv Medical Center, Safed, Israel
| | - Hussein Mahagna
- Department of Medicine 'B', The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Stefano Fiordoro
- Immunology Service, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), School of Public Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Naim Mahroum
- Department of Medicine 'B', The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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15
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Kulaksizoglu S, Kulaksizoglu B. The relationship between metabolic syndrome, BDNF, and vitamin D in patients with schizophrenia. NEUROCHEM J+ 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712417010056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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16
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Ramadan fasting on fatigue in nurses. The study was conducted between June 19 and July 27, 2014, with a descriptive design. This study was completed with 99 nurses working in a public hospital in the city of Gaziantep located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey. The data of the study were collected by using a questionnaire and the Piper Fatigue Scale. The Piper Fatigue Scale includes 4 subscale/dimensional scores and total fatigue scores. Higher scores indicate more fatigue. Statistical significance levels were set at P < .05. It was determined that the fatigue subscale and total mean scores of nurses increased in a statistically significant manner except for the affective subscale after the month of Ramadan (P < .05). In addition, it was found that the fatigue mean scores of those, who were working for 0 to 4 years, were employed in surgery units, and evaluated their health as bad, were higher (P > .05). The Ramadan fasting increased fatigue levels of nurses. Therefore, it is of vital importance to evaluate fatigue levels of nurses especially in the month of Ramadan and take the necessary precautions in terms of patient and personnel safety.
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17
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Effect of Ramadan fasting on fatigue, mood, sleepiness, and health-related quality of life of healthy young men in summer time in Germany: A prospective controlled study. Appetite 2016; 111:38-45. [PMID: 28027907 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2016.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Muslims around the world fast during the lunar month of Ramadan. The month consists of 29 or 30 days, which vary in length depending on geographic location and the time of year. During this month, Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sex from dawn until sunset. In 2015, Ramadan fell during the summer. As a result, Muslims in Germany fasted 19 h a day. Previous research has shown associations between fasting and mood enhancement. This study aimed to determine the effect of fasting on young, healthy males who fasted in Germany during Ramadan 2015. In particular, this study examined the impact of fasting on mood, fatigue, and health-related Quality of Life (QoL). This study had 2 groups: fasting group (FG; n = 25), and non-fasting group (NFG; n = 25). In FG, participants were assessed at four different points: one week before Ramadan (T1), mid Ramadan (T2), the last days of Ramadan (T3), and one week after Ramadan (T4). In NFG, participants were assessed only at T1 and T3. The results revealed that there were no significant differences between the participants in the FG and the NFG at T1 or T3 for any of the outcomes. However, participants in the FG demonstrated significant improvement from T2 to T4 in fatigue (visual analogue scale p < 0.01; fatigue severity scale:p < 0.01), mood (Beck's Depression Index-II; ANOVA; p < 0.05), and sleepiness during day time (Epworth Sleepiness Scale: ANOVA; p < 0.01). Participants in the FG also experienced significant loss of body weight (ANOVA; p < 0.001), body mass index (ANOVA; p < 0.001), skeletal muscle mass (ANOVA; p < 0.01) and fat free mass (ANOVA; p < 0.01). Findings demonstrate that Ramadan fasting did not significantly influence mood, fatigue and QoL, when compared to NFG. Even, it gives benefit to fasting group with regard to these parameters.
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18
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Ghayour Najafabadi M, Rahbar Nikoukar L, Memari A, Ekhtiari H, Beygi S. Does Ramadan Fasting Adversely Affect Cognitive Function in Young Females? SCIENTIFICA 2015; 2015:432428. [PMID: 26697263 PMCID: PMC4677254 DOI: 10.1155/2015/432428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Revised: 11/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
We examined the effects of Ramadan fasting on cognitive function in 17 female athletes. Data were obtained from participants of two fasting (n = 9) and nonfasting (n = 8) groups at three periods of the study (before Ramadan, at the third week in Ramadan, and after Ramadan). Digit span test (DST) and Stroop color test were employed to assess short-term memory and inhibition/cognitive flexibility at each time point. There were no significant changes for DST and Stroop task 1 in both groups, whereas Stroop task 2 and task 3 showed significant improvements in Ramadan condition (p < 0.05). Interference indices did not change significantly across the study except in post-Ramadan period of fasting group (p < 0.05). Group × week interaction was significant only for error numbers (p < 0.05). Athletes in nonfasting showed a significant decrease in number of errors in Ramadan compared to baseline (p < 0.05). The results suggest that Ramadan fasting may not adversely affect cognitive function in female athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboubeh Ghayour Najafabadi
- Neuroscience Institute, Sports Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Faculty of Sports Sciences and Physical Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Laya Rahbar Nikoukar
- Neuroscience Institute, Sports Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Memari
- Neuroscience Institute, Sports Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Ekhtiari
- Research Center for Molecular and Cellular Imaging, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Beygi
- Neuroscience Institute, Sports Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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19
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Joseph J, Depp C, Martin AS, Daly R, Glorioso DK, Palmer BW, Jeste DV. Associations of high sensitivity C-reactive protein levels in schizophrenia and comparison groups. Schizophr Res 2015; 168:456-60. [PMID: 26341579 PMCID: PMC4591213 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2015.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is characterized by physical (mainly metabolic and cardiovascular) comorbidity and shortened lifespan. High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), an inflammatory marker of hepatic origin linked to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases and mortality in the general population, has been reported to be elevated in people with schizophrenia. However, the relationship of hs-CRP to psychiatric and medical risk factors, after controlling for potentially confounding variables such as smoking, is not well established in schizophrenia. We assessed hs-CRP levels along with various demographic, psychiatric, and metabolic measures in 88 clinically stable outpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and 71 age epoch-matched comparison subjects with no history of a major psychiatric illness. hs-CRP levels were significantly higher in individuals with schizophrenia than in comparison subjects. Higher hs-CRP levels in the schizophrenia group were associated with female gender, more severe negative symptoms, greater medical comorbidity, and worse metabolic risk factors including BMI, fasting glucose, and hemoglobin A1c levels. hs-CRP was not related to age, race, education, smoking status, antipsychotic dosage, or cognitive impairment. Longitudinal studies are needed to investigate the relationship between hs-CRP and long-term health outcomes including metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and mortality in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Joseph
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Colin Depp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Averria Sirkin Martin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Rebecca Daly
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Danielle K Glorioso
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Center for Healthy Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Barton W Palmer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Dilip V Jeste
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Center for Healthy Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.
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