The effect of fasting on hemoglobin levels is not definitively clear, with research showing mixed results.
Here's what the current evidence suggests:
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Varied Effects: Studies on Ramadan fasting, a specific type of intermittent fasting, have shown that hemoglobin levels can increase, decrease, or remain unchanged.
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Conflicting Findings: According to research (The Effects of Ramadan Fasting and Physical Activity on Blood ... pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov › articles › PMC3758056), some studies report an increase in hemoglobin (7), others a decrease (8), and some show no changes at all (9) during Ramadan fasting.
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No definitive answer: Based on the available research, there is no conclusive evidence to support that fasting will definitively increase hemoglobin levels. Results seem to be influenced by individual conditions and the specific type of fasting.
| Effect of Fasting on Hemoglobin | Reference |
|---|---|
| Increase | (7) |
| Decrease | (8) |
| No Change | (9) |
It's important to note that while the reference highlights the variability in hemoglobin changes during Ramadan fasting, it also states that Ramadan fasting can change the lipoid profile of athletes (10), indicating broader physiological impacts.
Key Takeaway: The relationship between fasting and hemoglobin is complex and not fully understood. More research is needed to determine if specific types of fasting can consistently lead to an increase in hemoglobin.
