The Effects of Time‐Restricted Feeding on Handgrip Strength, Vigilance, and Perceived Anxiety and Depression in Older Adults: A Comparative Study Between Active and Sedentary Populations

Boujelbane, Mohamed Ali and Trabelsi, Khaled and Jahrami, Haitham and Ammar, Achraf and Salem, Atef and Kerkeni, Mohamed and Charfi, Amir and Boukhris, Omar and Clark, Cain and Roufayel, Rabih and Bragazzi, Nicola Luigi and Schöllhorn, Wolfgang I. and Glenn, Jordan M. and Chtourou, Hamdi (2025) The Effects of Time‐Restricted Feeding on Handgrip Strength, Vigilance, and Perceived Anxiety and Depression in Older Adults: A Comparative Study Between Active and Sedentary Populations. Health Science Reports, 8 (4). ISSN 2398-8835

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Abstract

Background and Aims

Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF), a form of time‐restricted feeding, influences various physiological and psychological functions. However, its effects on older adults remain insufficiently understood. This study examined the impact of RIF on physical and mental health parameters, comparing active and sedentary older individuals. Specifically, we assessed handgrip strength (HGS), vigilance performance, anxiety, and depression levels to determine whether regular physical activity mitigates potential adverse effects of RIF.

Methods

Fifty‐eight older adults (mean age 62.93 ± 3.99 years; 50% female) participated in this study. They were classified into an active group ( n = 26) and sedentary group ( n = 32) based on self‐reported physical activity levels. Assessments were conducted before and during RIF and included HGS measurement using a handheld dynamometer, a digital psychomotor vigilance test, and validated questionnaires (General Anxiety Disorder‐7, Geriatric Depression Scale, and Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly).

Results

During RIF, both groups showed significant improvements in vigilance, anxiety, and depression scores, with more pronounced benefits in the active group. However, sedentary participants experienced a decline in HGS, whereas active individuals maintained stable muscle strength.

Conclusion

Regular physical activity during RIF appears to enhance vigilance and mental health while preventing muscle strength decline in older adults. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle during RIF to support both physical and mental health in aging populations.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.1002/hsr2.70692
Dates:	Date Event 3 April 2025 Accepted 21 April 2025 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	aging, fasting, mental health, physical activity, wakefulness
Subjects:	CAH03 - biological and sport sciences > CAH03-02 - sport and exercise sciences > CAH03-02-01 - sport and exercise sciences
Divisions:	Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences > College of Life Sciences
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	27 Jun 2025 15:38
Last Modified:	27 Jun 2025 15:38
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/16450

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