Fasting Calorie Restriction Improved the Quality of Dietary Intake among Aging Men in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Abstract

This study used the new model of Fasting Calorie Restriction, which aimed at providing a feasible way of controlling eating. The present study aimed at determining the changes in dietary patterns following a three-month Fasting Calorie Restriction intervention. Twenty-five apparently healthy men (aged 50-70 years, BMI 23.0-29.9 kg/m²) were randomized into Fasting Calorie Restriction or Control groups. Those assigned to the Fasting Calorie Restriction group were instructed to restrict their daily energy intake to 2100 kJ/day and practice Muslim Sunnah fasting for 2 days a week for three months. Dietary data and Healthy Eating Index were obtained using a Diet History Questionnaire at the baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. Statistical analysis was carried out using a repeated measured of Analysis of Covariance using the baseline data as covariate. Energy intake decreased significantly (p<0.01) in the Fasting Calorie Restriction group. We also found a significant increase (p<0.05) in thiamine, riboflavin and niacin intakes in the Fasting Calorie Restriction group throughout the intervention period. Analysis of the Healthy Eating Index showed a significant main effect (p<0.05) for fat, saturated fat and cholesterol scores. Food variability decreased significantly (p<0.001) (9.5±0.9 at the baseline to 8.1±1.1 at week 12) in the Fasting Calorie Restriction group. Fasting Calorie Restriction in this study was beneficial in reducing overall energy and fat intake. However, it also decreased the food variability among subjects. There is a need to evaluate the long-term effects of Fasting Calorie Restriction on food variability and micronutrient status.