Can fasting cause stomach ulcer?
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Can Fasting Cause Stomach Ulcer?
Introduction to Fasting and Stomach Ulcers
Fasting, whether for religious reasons like Ramadan or for health benefits through intermittent fasting, involves abstaining from food and drink for specific periods. This practice can lead to various metabolic changes in the body, which may impact the digestive system, particularly the stomach. One of the concerns often raised is whether fasting can cause stomach ulcers.
Helicobacter pylori and Peptic Ulcers
No Significant Increase in Ulcer Incidence
Research indicates that fasting does not significantly affect the incidence of Helicobacter pylori-induced peptic ulcers. Studies have shown that while there may be a remodeling of the gastric environment and an increase in H. pylori concentrations during fasting, these changes do not translate into a higher risk of developing peptic ulcers. Therefore, individuals with uncomplicated ulcers can safely participate in fasting, provided they follow recommended measures.
Long-term Fasting and Gastric Ulcers in Animal Studies
Findings from Rat Studies
Animal studies provide some insights into the effects of prolonged fasting on the stomach. In rats, long-term fasting has been associated with the development of gastric ulcers. Specifically, ulcers were observed in the forestomach and corpus after 4 to 6 days of fasting. This was linked to a significant reduction in intragastric pH and a temporary increase in PAS positive mucus, suggesting that the attenuation of defensive factors, such as gastric mucus volume, plays a crucial role in ulcer formation during fasting.
Stress and Food Deprivation
Further studies on rats have shown that food deprivation for periods ranging from 1 to 12 days can lead to the development of rumenal ulcers, particularly after 3 days of fasting. The addition of stress factors, such as grid shock, did not significantly increase the incidence of ulcers, indicating that fasting alone is a sufficient stressor to induce ulcer formation in these animals.
Human Studies on Fasting and Gastric Health
Gastritis and Dietary Patterns
Human studies have explored the relationship between fasting and gastritis, a condition closely related to ulcers. Changes in dietary patterns during fasting can lead to various alterations in the digestive system. While fasting allows the digestive system to rest and may reduce the risk of some digestive issues, there is a noted relationship between diet, knowledge, and stress in the incidence of gastritis. However, behaviors such as coffee consumption and sex do not appear to be associated with gastritis during fasting.
Ramadan Fasting and Gastrointestinal Bleeding
A study investigating the effects of Ramadan fasting on acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding due to peptic ulcers found that fasting could increase the incidence of duodenal ulcers and related bleeding. The fasting group showed a higher frequency of duodenal ulcers compared to the non-fasting group. Despite this, the prognosis for fasting individuals was not poorer than that for non-fasting patients, suggesting that while fasting may increase the risk of acute gastrointestinal bleeding, it does not necessarily worsen the overall outcome.
Conclusion
In summary, while fasting does not significantly increase the risk of Helicobacter pylori-induced peptic ulcers, prolonged fasting can lead to the development of gastric ulcers in animal models. Human studies suggest that fasting may increase the incidence of duodenal ulcers and related bleeding, particularly during periods like Ramadan. However, with proper precautions and awareness, individuals can manage these risks effectively. It is essential for those with pre-existing conditions or symptoms to consult healthcare professionals before undertaking prolonged fasting.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic