Evaluating the Fasting Effect on the Level of Heavy Metals and Electrolyte Elements for Iraqi People in Ramadan

Abstract

In most healthy individuals, intermittent fasting during Ramadan, which occurs just once a year, could have positive effects on metabolic consequences. That even though there are several exceptions to fasting, many Muslims who have medical issues choose to fast. This may have a significant influence on their health if not addressed properly. The health consequences of Ramadan fasting have recently sparked renewed study. This study is designed to evaluate the effect of fasting in Ramadan on the level of some metals and minerals compare these levels with a control group that is not fasting during Ramadan and show the effect of Ramadan on the health of fasting people. It was a study consisting of two categories. The first group was composed of 50 people (males and females) who fasted during Ramadan, while the second group was composed of 50 people who ate and drank during Ramadan. From both groups tacked 5 ml of venous blood to estimate the concentration of metals which include: cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca), chromium (Cr), magnesium (Mg), potassium(K) and sodium (Na) during Ramadan month. The present study found that the concentration of cadmium, lead, copper and magnesium increase significantly in fasting group as compared to control group (with p- value =0.001 for Cd and p= 0.000 for other). whereas no significant difference in concentration of calcium, sodium and potassium between the fasting and control group. The results showed that fasting in Ramadan not affect the level of calcium, sodium and potassium, whereas the levels of cadmium, lead, copper, magnesium and chromium were affected, since they increased during fasting except chromium decreased. However, observing healthy food guidelines while fasting throughout Ramadan can lessen these alterations.