Effects of Ramadan Fasting on Physical Activity Level and Body Composition in Young Males

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Ramadan intermittent fasting on body composition, dietary intake and physical activity level of young males. Materials and Methods: Thirty three healthy young males aged between 18-25 years were participated as volunteers in this study. The study focused on three periods: the week before Ramadan (BRF), the first week of Ramadan (RF-FW) and the last week of Ramadan (RF-LW). Dietary intake (caloric and liquid intake, protein, fat and carbohydrate content), body composition measurements (body mass, body fat percentage and fat free mass) were conducted during BRF and RF-LW and physical activity questionnaire was completed during each period. Paired t test and Friedman test were used for statistical analysis. Results: According to the statistical analyses, body mass, body fat percentage, daily caloric intake, protein and carbohydrate content of the diet were significantly (p<0.05) reduced in Ramadan. On the contrary, no influence was seen on fat free mass, liquid intake and fat content of the diet. Moreover, there was a significant decrease (p<0.05) in total caloric expenditure caused by physical activity during RF-FW. However, no difference was shown between BRF and RF-LW regarding to total caloric expenditure. Similar to total caloric expenditure moderate PA was also decreased in RF-FW. On the other hand, caloric expenditure caused by high intensity physical activity was significantly (p<0.05) dropped both during RF-FW and RF-LW. Conclusion: Ramadan intermittent fasting was effective on body weight loss with just fat mass. Intensive physical activity patterns, total caloric intake and diet consumption except liquid and fat intake were reduced during Ramadan. As a consequence, performing moderate intensity activity during the month of Ramadan could be advised to the people, because of the beneficial effect on body composition.