Source: Fox News
Summary
A recent study by Northwestern University found that abstaining from food three hours before bedtime may benefit heart health. The study, which examined 39 overweight and obese participants, showed that extending an overnight fast for two hours and dimming the lights improved cardiovascular and metabolic health. The results were observed among middle-aged and older adults, who are at a higher risk for cardiometabolic disease.
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The advice sounds familiar.
This guidance has been heard before, with previous studies suggesting that timing our fasting window to work with the body’s natural wake-sleep rhythms can improve heart health. The study’s findings, which include improved blood pressure and heart rate regulation, as well as better daytime blood sugar control, are consistent with previous research linking sleep and circadian rhythms to cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association now recognizes healthy sleep as one of its Life’s Essential 8 pillars for heart health. As the study’s lead author noted, “Timing our fasting window to work with the body’s natural wake-sleep rhythms can improve the coordination between the heart, metabolism, and sleep, all of which work together to protect cardiovascular health.”
Author: Evan Null
