Some recent research into the long-term effects of intermittent fasting suggests that it may contribute to the development of heart disease. However, research into the link between heart disease and intermittent fasting is limited.

Heart disease is an umbrella term for conditions that affect how the heart works and its anatomy. Types of heart disease can include coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart failure. Risk factors for heart disease can include lifestyle factors, genetics, and other health conditions.

Intermittent fasting is a pattern of eating in which a person alternates between periods of fasting and eating a non-restrictive diet. It can involve restricting food intake to a certain number of hours per day, fasting on alternate days, or taking periodic breaks from food intake, such as fasting for 24 hours and then eating as usual the following day.

This article examines whether there is a link between heart disease and intermittent fasting and discusses some heart-healthy diet tips and steps that may reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

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Research suggests that intermittent fasting may have several health benefits, such as weight loss and improving how glucose and insulin metabolism.

Research from 2021 suggests that intermittent fasting can have several benefits in relation to heart health. These may include lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

However, some research indicates that extending the window of time a person eats during the day, rather than restricting it with intermittent fasting, might better benefit heart health. A 2023 study suggests that an eating window of 11 hours or moreTrusted Source per day may lower the risk of fatal heart disease in adults in the United States with heart failure.

According to a 2025 review of research, several factors due to intermittent fasting may lead to heart disease in people with obesity, including:

  • Some intermittent fasting protocols were associated with the loss of skeletal muscle mass, which could have adverse health effects in people with chronic conditions or reduced cardiovascular fitness.
  • Eating more food during non-fasting windows than a person would typically consume.
  • Choosing more satisfying foods over foods with more nutritional value due to reward eating.
  • Skipping breakfast and eating late at night. These behaviors have a strong association with elevated blood pressure, metabolic dysfunction, and cardiovascular risk.

The authors of the review suggested that there is a need for greater research into the link between intermittent fasting and heart disease.

Additionally, a 2024 review of evidence suggests that healthcare professionals hold various opinions about the link between heart disease and intermittent fasting. Many studies into this link are from rodent trials or focus on short-term health impacts. Further research into the topic is necessary.

A person may consider speaking with a doctor for guidance before trying intermittent fasting.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, heart disease is a leading cause of deathTrusted Source in adults in the United States.

A person may be able to reduce the risk of developing heart disease by following a heart-healthy diet, which includesTrusted Source:

  • Plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes.
  • Proteins, such as:
    • lean meats
    • fish
    • low fat or fat-free dairy products
    • nuts
  • Vegetable oils instead of coconut, palm oils, or palm kernel.
  • Foods that are high in fiber, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, such as:
    • leafy green vegetables
    • potatoes
    • lentils
    • nuts
    • seeds

A heart-healthy diet limits the following:

  • foods high in saturated fats, such as fatty meats like beef and full-fat dairy products
  • sugary foods and drinks, such as ultra-processed foods and sodas
  • salty foods, including fast food and ultra-processed snacks
  • alcohol

By following a heart-healthy lifestyle, a person may be able to reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition to following a heart-healthy diet, some lifestyle choices a person can make to help prevent heart disease can includeTrusted Source:

Intermittent fasting may have several health benefits. However, there is limited research into the link between intermittent fasting and heart disease. The majority of studies into intermittent fasting and heart disease are rodent trials or report short-term health impacts. Further large and high quality research into the topic is necessary.

By following a heart-healthy diet, increasing physical activity, getting good quality sleep, reducing stress, and avoiding smoking a person can reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

A person may consider speaking with a healthcare professional for further advice before trying intermittent fasting.