Weight Change Before and After 30 Days of Intermittent Fasting among University Students in Pakistan

Abstract

Introduction: Fasting is a practice of abstaining from certain or all kinds of food and beverages depending on the cultural and religious values of the individual.  The objective of this study was to observe the effects of intermittent fasting on the weight of Muslim university students in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: A longitudinal study was undertaken at the public sector university in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan from 13 April to 12 May 2021. Using a predefined questionnaire at the beginning and end of one month of intermittent fasting, personal data and weight changes were recorded for a total of 95 participants. Results: The sample was based on primary medical students with a predominance of 73.7% females (70). Most of them (67.4%) were in the age range between 20 and 29 years. About 44 (62.90%) were under the normal BMI of 18.5.  When comparing the participants' weight, the mean weight pre-fasting was 58.66±12.12 kg, and the weight after one month of fasting was 58.76±12.67 kg showing a difference of 0.10 kg and a non-significant p-value of 0.73. 17.9% of the subjects had gained over 1 kilogram, 23.2% had lost over 1 kilogram, and 22.1% maintained their weight, after fasting. Conclusion: The study indicated a weight change in most individuals enrolled. Although the weight change was not significant, an increase was seen among most of the individuals.  Factors such as decreased physical activity due to COVID-19 quarantine practices, consumption of high-calorie dense foods, and reduced metabolism during fasting may contribute to the results.