# Is There a Difference in Overweight and Obesity Between Christian Orthodox Fasters and Non-Fasters? A Cross-Sectional Study in Northern Greece

## TL;DR

This study compared the health and diet of Christian Orthodox fasters and non-fasters in Greece, finding no difference in weight but better metabolic profiles in fasters.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the health effects of Christian Orthodox fasting in a Greek population.

## Key findings

- Fasters had better glucose regulation and lower blood pressure compared to non-fasters.
- Fasters consumed more plant-based foods and less meat, dairy, and alcohol.
- No significant differences in overweight or obesity rates were found between the groups.

## Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess nutrient intake among individuals adhering to the Christian Orthodox Church (COC) fasting and to investigate potential differences in dietary intake according to Body Mass Index (BMI) classification. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled participants through announcements at public universities, churches, and monasteries, targeting both urban and religious adult populations. A total of 228 adults with a BMI exceeding 25 kg/m2 were enrolled. Of these, 121 had followed COC fasting practices for at least 10 years or since childhood, while 107 non-fasters were age-matched. Exclusion criteria included age under 18 years, refusal to provide consent, absence from measurements, non-communicable diseases, food allergies, pregnancy, or lactation. Results: Overweight and obesity rates were similar in both groups. Furthermore, there were no statistically significant differences in body composition measurements [body fat %, fat mass (kg), fat free mass (kg), waist circumference]. Diastolic and systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in non-fasters. Non-fasters reported higher intake of sugar, dietary protein, fats (saturated and polyunsaturated), and cholesterol. Fasters consumed lower amounts of vitamin A, vitamins B (B2, B3, B6, B12, folate, pantothenic acid), iron, phosphorus, sodium, zinc, and calcium. Serum folic acid levels were higher, and fasting glucose and phosphorus levels were lower in fasters. Distinct dietary patterns were observed between groups, with fasters consuming more fish and traditional plant-based foods, while non-fasters consumed higher amounts of meat, dairy products, and alcohol. Conclusions: COC fasting is associated with favorable dietary and metabolic profiles, including improved glucose regulation. However, its impact on weight status appears limited.