Effects of lenten fasting on body composition and biochemical parameters

Background: The catholic lenten fasting is the period of 40 days of fasting that precedes Easter. It is one of religious fasting less documented in the scientific literature. Thus the aim of our study was to evaluate the evolution of anthropometric and body composition and biochemical profile during Catholic lenten fasting.Methods: We conducted a prospective study, which took place during the period between one week before at the end of lenten fasting. Eleven fasters (4 women and 7 men), aged between 18 and 59 years were included in present study. Anthropometric, body composition parameters and biochemical profile were evaluated one week before, at 15th day and at the end of Lenten fasting.Results: Weight, body mass index (BMI) and visceral fat decreased significantly at the end of Lenten fasting. Lipid profile changed significantly during this fasting period. Total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein – cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides decreased significantly with fasting. High density lipoprotein – cholesterol (HDL-C) was remained unchanged during this fasting period while TC/HDL ratio was significantly decreased at the end of Lent.Conclusions: Present study showed that the fasting of Lent seems to have beneficial effects on reducing cardiovascular risk factors. Further studies are required to better understand the physiological mechanisms involved for a therapeutic use

Prevalence and impact of adiposity and sarcopenia during rheumatoid arthritis: rapid and non-invasive evaluation in Sub-Saharan African women

Background: Body composition plays a fundamental role in the occurrence of complications in rheumatoid arthritis. Authors conducted this study, which aimed to determine body composition and its effects on physiological status in African sub-Saharan polyarthritis women.Methods: The anthropometric parameters were measured after an interview and a complete physical examination. The body composition was evaluated using a Tanita® brand bioimpedance meter. Finally, all the patients had a dosage of certain biochemical parameters.Results: An excess of percent fat mass was noted in more than half of women (59.52%) without loss of muscle mass. At the same time, 30% of women had a significant decrease in the percentage of body water. The BMI did not appear to be an adequate proxy for these changes. Visceral fat level was elevated just in 16% of women, however it would be a determinant of physiological aging of subjects. Dual therapy methotrexate and corticosteroid would have varying effects depending on the duration and the dose of treatment. The basic metabolism in polyarthritic subjects would be dependent on two parameters namely muscle mass and inflammatory state.Conclusions: Evaluating changes in body composition quickly, non-invasively and inexpensively is possible. It could be useful in the follow-up of rheumatoid arthritis. Managing these changes can reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in rheumatoid arthritis