Most people occasionally fast for religious reasons or as a lifestyle choice. And you may wonder what impact fasting has on your health. Can it bring down blood pressure? Is it healthy for the heart? Is it harmful in a few situations?
Fasting lower blood pressure

Medical experts reveal that there are several advantages of fasting for short periods. Fasting is voluntary self-denial of food and at times drinks for a specific period, and has been practised for ages for religious, cultural and health reasons. In recent years, experts have explored its impact on cardiovascular health, mainly blood pressure control. Hypertension, being a silent killer and primary risk factor for heart disease and stroke, understanding how fasting can reduce blood pressure is vital for both prevention and management.

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How Fasting Affects Blood Pressure?

Improves Insulin Sensitivity

When you are fasting, insulin levels gradually drop, and the body becomes very sensitive to insulin. This state helps control blood sugar spikes and mitigates the stress on blood vessels, which can indirectly lower blood pressure.

Also Read: Intermittent Fasting: Method, Types, Health Benefits And FAQs

Lowers Sodium/ Calorie Intake

During the starvation state or fasting the overall calorie intake is reduced and also intake of sodium and salty foods are minimal, both of which are associated with controlled blood pressure.

Promotes Vascular Function

Several pieces of evidence have revealed that fasting may improve the endothelial function of the blood vessel lining. This improves proper blood circulation and eases stiffness in arteries, a key factor in lowering blood pressure.

Reduces Body Weight/Fat

Obesity is one of the key causative factors linked to uncontrolled hypertension. Intermittent fasting or extended fasting often results in weight loss, which reduces the strain on the heart and controls blood pressure.

Types of Fasting and Their Impact

Intermittent Fasting (IF) is popular among most fitness enthusiasts. IF, like the 16:8 or alternate day fasting, shows consistent benefits in lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Research on people fasting during Ramadan demonstrates short-term reductions in blood pressure, cholesterol, and oxidative stress.

Longer fasts (24–72 hours under medical supervision) can lead to significant drops in blood pressure, though these should be approached cautiously.

How does it benefit heart Health?

Lower Risk of Atherosclerosis

Fasting diminishes triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, this maintains the lipid profile under control. Additionally prevents plaque buildup in arteries and lowers risk of atherosclerosis.

Reduces Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a silent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fasting lowers inflammatory markers like CRP and IL-6, safeguarding heart health.

Autonomic Nervous System Balance

Fasting is known to shift the body toward parasympathetic dominance (rest-and-digest mode), which lowers stress-related spikes in blood pressure and heart rate.

Better Heart Rate

A few studies have disclosed that fasting improved heart rate variability (HRV). This is one of the primary markers of heart resilience during fasting, reflecting better overall heart health.

Precautions

Those with diabetes, kidney disease, low blood pressure, or individuals taking antihypertensive medications should fast only under medical supervision.

Certain fasting methods, particularly dry fasting, can result in dehydration, which may temporarily elevate blood pressure.

The benefits of fasting are most noticeable when combined with a wholesome and balanced diet regimen, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Conclusion

Fasting in a well-planned manner can lower blood pressure, specifically by losing weight, improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, augmenting overall vascular function and cardiovascular health. However, fasting should not be seen as an alternative remedy for medical treatment but rather as a complementary lifestyle habit. Those who are on medications or with comorbid health conditions should seek proper advice from their healthcare provider before startingthe fasting phase.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References:

The Effect of Fasting on Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review

Kirubel T Hailu 1,2,✉, Korlos Salib 1, Sanath Savithri Nandeesha 1, Alousious Kasagga 3, Chnoor Hawrami 4, Erica Ricci 5, Pousette Hamid 6

Editors: Alexander Muacevic, John R Adler

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10902743/

Intermittent Fasting: A Heart Healthy Dietary Pattern?

Tiffany A DONG 1, Pratik B SANDESARA 2, Devinder S DHINDSA 2, Anurag MEHTA 2, Laura C ARNESON 3, Allen L DOLLAR 4, Pam R TAUB 5, Laurence S SPERLING 6

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7415631/

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.