Review of the Literature on Ramadan Fasting and Health in 2022

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The literature on health and disease during Ramadan fasting (RF) is widely spread in many journals making it not readily accessible to those interested in the subject. Here, we provide an overview of the research on the interplay of RF with various aspects of well-being published in 2022. Materials and Methods A narrative, nonsystematic review of the international literature from a single major medical online database, PubMed, in one calendar year (2022) was conducted. The search term “Ramadan fasting” was used to retrieve the appropriate records. The relevant literature with substantial data-based content was presented in a concise thematic account, excluding those concerned with diabetes. Results Themes that emerged from the review included the pathophysiology of metabolic changes during RF, nutritional aspects including body composition and energy metabolism, cardiovascular disease and risk factors, renal function and structure, endocrinology (mainly thyroid), neurological disorders, mental health, pregnancy and fetal life, and infections (including COVID). Some miscellaneous clinical themes were identified, such as patients' and professional perspectives. Conclusions In 2022, the medical interest in RF was again widely spread across specialties. Cardiovascular disease and risk factors attract the most interest in terms of original articles and professional guidelines. We hope with this review to present a concise summary of the scholarly work on the subject in this year.