Intermittent fasting shows age‑related muscle loss and LDL rise

A review of 28 clinical trials involving more than 1,800 adults confirms that intermittent fasting lowers body weight and BMI across all ages and sexes. However, the metabolic response varies: 20‑30% of the weight lost is typically lean muscle, and in one study 65% of the loss was muscle tissue, posing a particular risk for older adults who already experience age‑related sarcopenia.

The analysis also found an unexpected increase in LDL‑cholesterol levels across most age groups, contradicting earlier reports of a cholesterol‑lowering effect. One author warned that “the generalized risk of LDL‑C elevation across different age groups underscores the need for vigilant lipid monitoring.”

Experts recommend pairing intermittent fasting with resistance training and higher protein intake to preserve muscle mass, and advise regular lipid checks for anyone following a fasting regimen.