Effect of Islamic fasting on the obesity factors in male and female obese subjects

Fasting is performed in different communities with different believes and for the management of body weight but in Islam the Muslim observes fasting in the Holy Month of Ramadan as an obligation. Therefore, this study was designed to know the effect of fasting on the obesity factors for example body weight, serum adiponectin, serum lipids and body composition assesses by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Twenty five volunteers (male & female) from the international Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) were recruited in Ramadan. Age sex, weight, height and menstrual cycle status (in case of females) were recorded on day1 of the Ramadan and body weight was also recorded on day 21. Similarly, BIA was performed on day1 and 21 for the assessment changes in body composition. Blood samples were collected on the Day1 of the Ramadan followed by another three collection of blood samples .i.e. day7, 14 & 21 respectively. The blood serum was separated and stored at -20C̊. From weight & height basal metabolic Index (BMI) was determined. The blood was analyzed for glucose, adiponectin and lipid profiles by Bayer Health Care Kits. After 21 days of Ramadan fasting body weight was significantly (P <0.001) reduced in the obese individuals. There was significant (P