The Effects of Ramadan Fasting on Electrolytes Index, Serum Osmolarity and Body Composition in Fasting and Non-Fasting Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Renal failure is strongly associated with serum osmolarity and changes in electrolytes and some blood metabolites. Because fasting is often associated with Ramadan, especially during the warm months of the year, there is a concern that renal function may be affected.

This study aimed to observe the effect of one month of fasting on electrolytes, serum osmolarity and body composition in fasting and non-fasting students.

Twenty-nine healthy males (age 21.20 ± 1.69 years and body mass index 25.03 ± 2.11 kg/m2) were divided into two groups: fasting (n = 15) and non-fasting (n = 14). All measurements such as electrolytes index, serum osmolarity and body composition were collected before and after the fasting month. Data were analyzed with repeated measure ANOVA to compare within and between groups. The significance level was set at P < 0.05.

Within-group variations were changed BMI, WHR, hip circumference, and waist circumference. Fasting glucose levels were significantly decreased at the end of the fasting period (P < 0.05). Fasting urea, creatinine, uric acid, sodium, potassium, osmolarity increased significantly in the fasting group but no significant change was observed in serum albumin levels.

According to this result, fasting during Ramadan leads to an increase in osmolarity and serum electrolytes and a decrease in body composition. However, the use of healthy eating principles during Ramadan can help minimize these changes.