Association of fasting with heavy metals and minerals

Abstract

Millions of Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan and avoid eating and drinking during this month (1). Fasting is a healthy and non-pharmacological way to improve your health and weight loss (2, 3). During fasting days, nutritional patterns and the amount of food consumed will change (4). It can be concluded that these changes can lead to changes in the metabolism of the human body. The purpose of this review is to investigate the effect of fasting on the rate of secretion and absorption of heavy metals and minerals. According to the former studies during the fasting period, the amount of heavy metal adsorption and disposal and its toxic effects increase. On the other hand, by addition of calcium and phosphorus supplements, it is possible to reduce heavy metal adsorption. Moreover, due to the increase in the absorption of minerals with the empty stomach, individuals with mineral deficiencies can take more of these minerals and trace elements during fasting. Also, Fasting can reduce body mass and release mercury from tissues.