Effects of long-term fasting on female hormone levels: Ramadan model.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Ramadan fasting is a special model of hunger and particularly affects metabolic processes, including carbohydrate and lipid levels. Endocrine changes induced by Ramadan fasting are not well known. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article was to evaluate the changes in hormone levels in women before and after the special Muslim fasting period of Ramadan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was performed in 30 healthy women in Obstetrics and Gynecology department during the Ramadan month of2011. Patients during and after the first menstrual period had menstrual cycles fasting blood samples taken on the same days. Luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), testosterone, and prolactin (PRL) levels were determined. RESULTS: Before and during fasting LH, FSH, E2, testosterone and PRL levels were not statistically different. CONCLUSION: Despite the limited available studies on these subjects in women, effect of Ramadan fasting on hormone levels were found to be within the normal limits.