Heart Fasting
A formative, family-friendly factoid from a survey or study in the news.
In yet another medical study showing that Jesus was way ahead of his time on, yes, even diet and nutrition — remember the reports on the health benefits of eating fish regularly and drinking wine in moderation? — researchers have found a correlation between fasting and healthy hearts. A study by the Intermountain Medical Center and the University of Utah, published in December, found that participants who skipped meals once a month (most because of Mormon observances) were 40% less likely to be diagnosed with coronary artery disease than those who did not fast regularly. The scientists weren’t sure whether it was the fasting alone that made the difference or some combination of lifestyle factors, but some observers are intrigued enough to call for more studies. “I think it’s worth looking at again” and on a larger scale, commented Dr. Tim Johnson, medical editor for ABC News. “There’s a lot we don’t know about fasting.”
