ASSESSMENTS OF THE EFFECT OF INTERMITTENT FASTING ON SOME RESPIRATORY PARAMETERS (RESPIRATORY RATE, PEAK EXPIRATORY FLOW RATE & PERIPHERAL OXYGEN SATURATION) IN HEALTHY ADULTS IN BAYERO UNIVERSITY KANO
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Intermittent fasting (IF) has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits, including metabolic regulation, weight management, and cellular repair. However, its impact on respiratory function in healthy individuals remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess the effect of intermittent fasting on selected respiratory parameters—respiratory rate (RR), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO₂)—in healthy adults. A Quasi-experimental study design was employed, involving measurements of RR, PEFR, and SpO₂ during three key phases: pre-fasting, fasting, and post-fasting. A total of [20] participants were enrolled and monitored over the course of the fasting regimen. Results showed a statistically significant reduction in RR and PEFR during the fasting phase compared to both pre- and post-fasting phases. Specifically, RR decreased from 28.07 ± 4.65 to 26.86 ± 5.89 breaths per minute, and PEFR declined from 516.04 ± 60.20 to 482.00 ± 61.53 L/min, both changes being significant (p < 0.05). These parameters returned to baseline values following the fasting period. In contrast, SpO₂ remained stable across all three phases, with no significant changes observed. These findings suggest that intermittent fasting may induce temporary, reversible alterations in respiratory rate and pulmonary function without compromising oxygen saturation in healthy individuals. The results support the respiratory safety of intermittent fasting and contribute valuable insight into physiological adaptations during caloric restriction. Further studies are recommended to explore these effects in individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions and under varying fasting protocols. In conclusion, These outcomes suggest that intermittent fasting induces temporary physiological adaptations—including a reduction in metabolic rate and possible dehydration—that influence respiratory dynamics without compromising oxygenation.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.