The influence of circadian rhythm disruption during Ramadan on metabolic responses to physical activity: a pilot study

Fasting participants with normal sleep patterns exhibited lower HOMA-IR (<i>β</i> = -0.416, <i>p</i> = 0.047) in response to PA compared to those with disrupted sleep. Additionally, they demonstrated more efficient lipid utilization during PA, characterized by reduced diacylglycerol levels, which could enhance insulin sensitivity and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. In contrast, fasting participants with disrupted sleep patterns experienced metabolic stress, marked by significant depletion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and plasmalogens in response to PA. These changes were associated with increased inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially leading to metabolic dysregulation.