The effects of intermittent and short-term fasting on heart rate variability

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is a non-invasive index of neurocardiac function, reflecting the activity and balance of the autonomic nervous system and its ability to respond to internal and external stimuli. Cardiaovascular disease is a type of non-communicable disease with a high mortality rate, rank as the leading cause of death in Indonesia. Therefore, monitoring the neurocardiac function is essential in preventing the risks associated with this serious condition. One of the most common interventions to improve neurocardiac health and general wellness is fasting. Although fasting is traditionally practiced as a form of religious traditions such as Ramadan fasting, or as a weight loss strategy, several studies have indicated its positive effects on neurocardiac health. This review aims to collect study results that showed the effect of fasting, specifically intermittent fasting and short-term fasting, on heart rate variability as a potential intervention to maintain and enhance neurocardiac function, contributing to a more stable autonomic nervous system activity, and improvement in overall health.