Effects of Ramadan Fasting on Hepatic Steatosis and Liver Volume in Individuals without Chronic Liver Conditions

Abstract

Introduction: Ramadan fasting, especially in the summer months, provides an important opportunity to evaluate the effects of variances in eating and drinking habits on the body metabolism. Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of Ramadan fasting on liver steatosis and volume measured by Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI) in overweight and obese people and to reveal the effect of this period on liver function tests and blood-lipid profile. Methods: Study was conducted with 34 individuals(28 male/6 female) who did not have chronic liver or systemic disease, did not use alcohol, had a BMI≥25, and committed to keep Ramadan fast. Abdominal MRI and blood analysis were performed twice; one week before and after the Ramadan. Liver fat fractions and volumes were calculated from MRI. All data were then statistically analyzed and compared. Results:The mean age of the individuals was 44,5(19-68). Before Ramadan the weight average and the mean BMI were 86,76 kg and 30,29 respectively.Although an increase in liver fat fraction (%2.92±7.99 vs %3.44±8.11;p>0.05) and a decrease in liver volume (1555.37±316.92 vs 1546.63±339.82;p>0.05) were detected after Ramadan, it was not statistically significant. There were statistically significant positive changes in blood-lipid profile and liver function tests. Conclusion:The excess consumption of food during the evening and at night and a sedentary lifestyle may have affected the results of the present study; however, avoiding a predetermined amount of food and drinks regularly for a long time would also result in statistical changes.As such, larger, long-term studies that include participants with a BMI <25 are needed.

Keywords

• ramadan fasting
• liver steatosis
• chemical shift imaging
• non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• obesity