From the Guidelines
Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) should exercise extreme caution when considering intermittent fasting (IF) due to the potential for worsening symptoms and interactions with psychiatric medications. The safety of IF for individuals with PTSD is uncertain, and there is a lack of direct evidence addressing this specific population 1. However, it is known that PTSD often involves dysregulation of stress hormones like cortisol, and fasting can further increase cortisol levels, potentially exacerbating anxiety, hypervigilance, and mood disturbances.
Some key considerations for individuals with PTSD who may be considering IF include:
- Potential worsening of PTSD symptoms due to increased stress and cortisol levels
- Interactions with psychiatric medications, such as SSRIs (like sertraline or fluoxetine), SNRIs, or other medications that may require consistent food intake for proper absorption and effectiveness
- Risk of triggering or worsening disordered eating patterns, which sometimes co-occur with PTSD
- Importance of regular monitoring of both physical and psychological symptoms, and discontinuing IF if it leads to adverse effects
Given the potential risks and lack of direct evidence, a gradual approach with shorter fasting windows (such as 12:12 or 14:10) might be more appropriate than more restrictive protocols, but only under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Alternative approaches to metabolic health that don't involve fasting periods, such as regular meal timing and balanced nutrition, may be more suitable for those with PTSD, as they can help improve overall health without the potential risks associated with IF 1.
From the Research
Intermittent Fasting and PTSD
- There is limited research directly addressing the safety of intermittent fasting (IF) for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Studies have explored the effects of various interventions, such as yoga, meditation, and diet, on PTSD symptoms, but none have specifically focused on IF 2, 3, 4, 5.
- One study found that PTSD symptoms are associated with worse diet quality, and that emotion suppression may contribute to the consumption of unhealthy food 4.
- Another study demonstrated the efficacy of Transcendental Meditation as a treatment for PTSD in veterans, but did not investigate IF 5.
- A review of fasting therapy found that it may be beneficial for treating and preventing various diseases, including chronic inflammatory diseases, but did not specifically address PTSD 6.
- Overall, there is currently no direct evidence to support or refute the safety of IF for individuals with PTSD, and further research is needed to fully understand its potential effects 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Potential Mechanisms and Considerations
- Fasting has been shown to have various health-promoting effects, including improved mood and reduced oxidative stress, which may be beneficial for individuals with PTSD 6.
- However, IF may also have potential negative effects, such as increased stress and anxiety, which could exacerbate PTSD symptoms 6.
- It is essential to consider the individual's overall health and well-being, as well as their specific needs and circumstances, before recommending IF or any other intervention for PTSD 2, 3, 4, 5.