Effect of Ramadan Fasting on Body Weight and Serum Leptin Level: A Prospective Study

Objective: To evaluate the changes caused by Ramadan fasting on body weight and serum leptin level in normal, overweight and obese individuals. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted from June to July 2014 among individuals who fasted throughout the month of Ramadan and had no known chronic disease. All individuals were categorized according to Body Mass Index (BMI) categories for Asians, i.e., normal weight (18.5-22.9 Kg/m2), overweight (23-24.9 Kg/m2) and obese (>25Kg/m2). Anthropometric measurements and blood samples were obtained at irst day of Ramadan (Pre Ramadan) and during the last week of Ramadan (Post Ramadan). Leptin hormone was analyzed by Human ELISA kit. Paired t-test was used for comparison, pvalues