Health experts are cautioning against the adoption of diet fads and intermittent fasting following the release of preliminary results from a research paper on time-restricted eating. Tanuja Nesari, Director of the c highlighted the potential risks associated with intermittent fasting, noting a 91% increase in the risk of death from heart disease as indicated by the study.

The findings, presented in an abstract at an American Heart Association conference in Chicago, have drawn attention to the importance of meal timing and composition. Dr. Nesari emphasized the significance of adhering to traditional Indian dietary practices, suggesting that the time between major meals should range between three to six hours. According to her, consuming two nutritious and balanced meals during daylight hours when digestive capacity is optimal is advisable.

Ambuj Roy, a cardiologist at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), stressed the importance of focusing on the quality and constituents of food to prevent heart disease and cancer. He advocated for a low-inflammatory diet that is sustainable in the long run, cautioning against the allure of diet fads.

The discussion surrounding diet and nutrition comes at a critical time, with recent data from The Lancet revealing a staggering increase in global obesity rates. The report indicates that more than one billion people worldwide are now living with obesity, with a concerning rise observed among children and adolescents.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and diabetes, both closely linked to dietary habits, pose significant health challenges in India. V. Mohan, chairman and chief of diabetology at Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre and Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, emphasized the importance of personalized dietary approaches, stating that a 'one diet fits all' approach is ineffective. He cautioned individuals, especially those with existing health conditions, to seek guidance from qualified professionals before embarking on any dietary regimen.

As the prevalence of obesity, CVD, and diabetes continues to rise globally, the need for evidence-based dietary recommendations and individualized nutritional interventions becomes increasingly paramount. Health authorities stress the importance of prioritizing sustainable dietary practices and seeking professional guidance to mitigate health risks associated with diet fads and intermittent fasting.