Effect of Ramadan fasting on hepatic function in healthy adults.

Background:Health specific effects of Ramadan fasting reported are controversial. Aim of the study is to evaluate the effects of Ramadan fasting on liver function tests among healthy adults. Material and methods: 35 healthy volunteers were recruited who decided to follow the Ramadan fasting. Baseline liver function tests were assayed one day prior to Ramadan fast and again on the last day of Ramadan. Serum bilirubin, Alanine transaminase, Aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein and Albumin were estimated. Results:Serum bilirubin, ALP and Albumin levels did not affected by Ramadan fasting. But trend of statistically significant decline in serum AST, ALT, total proteins  (p<0.05) is observed among our studied healthy participants. Conclusion: Ramadan fasting does not show any severe adverse effects on functioning of liver among healthy individuals. Significant fall in serum enzymes and proteins observed.