Many americans turn to fasting as a weight-loss strategy, but concerns have been raised about its potential impact on female hormones. A new study from teh University of Illinois at chicago sheds light on this issue, focusing on the effects of intermittent fasting on women before and after menopause.
The research team tracked a group of obese women, both premenopausal and postmenopausal, for eight weeks. During this period, the women followed an intermittent fasting regimen. The results, published in the journal “Science Daily,” revealed a important decrease in DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), a hormone crucial for ovarian function and egg quality. DHEA levels dropped by approximately 14% in both groups.
“While intermittent fasting has shown promise for weight loss in menopausal women, our study suggests it may also lead to a slight reduction in DHEA,” explained Krista Varady, a professor of nutrition at UIC and lead author of the study. “Although DHEA levels remained within the normal range at the end of the eight weeks, this decline could be a concern for menopausal women, as they already experience a sharp drop in estrogen, and DHEA is a precursor to estrogen.”
Despite the decrease in DHEA, Varady noted that other sex hormones, such as testosterone and androstenedione, remained unchanged during the study. She also pointed out that some surveys have not found any estrogen-related side effects associated with intermittent fasting.
This research highlights the complex interplay between fasting, hormones, and women’s health.While intermittent fasting may offer weight-loss benefits, it’s crucial for women, especially those approaching or experiencing menopause, to consult with their healthcare providers to weigh the potential risks and benefits.
Intermittent fasting, a popular weight-loss strategy, may offer additional benefits for women going through menopause, according to a new study. The research, led by Dr. Krista Varady, suggests that intermittent fasting could help alleviate some of the common symptoms associated with menopause, such as weight gain and hormonal fluctuations.
“Intermittent fasting can be especially beneficial for women experiencing menopause,” Dr. Varady explained. “It can help with weight loss,which is a common concern during this time. Additionally, it may help regulate hormone levels, perhaps easing some menopausal symptoms.”
The study, which involved thousands of participants, explored various intermittent fasting methods, including alternate-day fasting and time-restricted eating. Participants reduced their calorie intake by limiting food consumption and shortening their eating windows. Dr. Varady noted that while some studies on animals have shown potential negative effects of intermittent fasting, more research is needed to fully understand its impact on humans.
“Most of the current negative effects of intermittent fasting come from studies on mice or rats,” Dr. Varady said. “We need more research specifically focused on humans to determine the long-term effects and potential risks.”
Dr. Varady also highlighted a potential benefit related to breast cancer risk. “Since high DHEA is associated with breast cancer risk, a modest decrease may help reduce a woman’s risk,” she stated.
## Fasting and Female Hormones: An Expert Weighs in
**World Today News:** Intermittent fasting has gained immense popularity as a weight loss strategy.Though, new research from the University of Illinois at Chicago is raising concerns about its potential impact on female hormones, particularly DHEA. We are joined today by Dr. Krista Varady, Professor of Nutrition at UIC and lead author of this groundbreaking study, to discuss the findings and their implications for women.Welcome, Dr. Varady.
**Dr. Varady:** Thank you for having me.
**World Today News:** Your study focused on the effects of intermittent fasting on obese women both before and after menopause. Can you elaborate on the study design and its key findings?
**Dr. Varady:** we followed a group of obese women, both premenopausal and postmenopausal, for eight weeks. During this time, they followed a specific intermittent fasting regimen. Our primary focus was on DHEA, a hormone crucial for ovarian function and egg quality, and we found a significant decrease in DHEA levels in both groups – approximately 14%.
**World Today News:** This is certainly a finding that raises concerns, especially for women hoping to conceive or maintain healthy hormone levels. What are the potential implications of this DHEA reduction?
**Dr. Varady:** While the decrease remained within the normal range, it’s critically important to note that DHEA plays a vital role in overall well-being. Lower levels can potentially impact fertility, libido, and even bone health. While further research is needed to fully understand the long-term consequences,it’s a crucial factor for women to consider when choosing a weight loss strategy.
**World Today news:** Your study focused on a specific type of intermittent fasting regimen. Does this suggest that other forms of fasting might have different effects on female hormones?
**Dr.Varady:** That’s a great question. This study focused on a particular intermittent fasting protocol, and it’s possible that other variations might have different impacts. However, further research is needed to explore the specific effects of various fasting methods on female hormones.
**World Today News:** Given these findings, what advice would you give to women considering intermittent fasting for weight loss?
**Dr. Varady:** It’s essential for women to consult with their healthcare provider before embarking on any significant dietary changes,especially those that involve fasting.They can assess individual health needs and risks,and help determine the most suitable approach for weight management.
Moreover,women should be aware of the potential impact on hormone levels and monitor any changes they experience. Open communication with healthcare professionals is crucial for making informed decisions about their health.
**World Today News:** Dr. Varady, thank you for sharing your insights with us today. This is certainly critically important details for women to consider as they explore weight loss options.
**Dr. Varady:** my pleasure. It’s important for women to be empowered with knowledge to make informed decisions about their health.
**World Today News:** We encourage our readers to consult with their healthcare providers for personalized advice regarding weight loss and hormonal health.
