The Effects of Ramadan Fasting and Physical Activity on Blood Hematological-Biochemical Parameters

Fasting during Ramadan is a religious obligation and belief for healthy and adult Moslems. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of Ramadan fasting and physical activity on blood hematological-biochemical parameters. In this study twenty six healthy males were assigned into two experimental groups, non-active fasting (13 people) and active fasting (13 people) groups. Two blood samples were taken from each group at the beginning and end of Ramadan. The data was analyzed through repeated measure ANOVA. At the end of Ramadan, Hematocrit (Hct), red blood cell count (RBC), TC, LDL, HDL, LDL: HDL, TC: HDL and VLDL decreased significantly in both groups (P<0.05). Amount of HDL during fasting increased significantly in active fasting (P=0.023) and non-active fasting (P=0.042). The FBS levels reduced significantly only in active fasting group (P<0.05). Fasting during Ramadan by regular physical activity led to the positive alterations in Hematological-Biochemical Index. These changes can be due to the alterations in diet, biology response of the body to the starving and physical activity during Ramadan.