SAT-514 The Metabolic And Endocrine Effects Of Intermittent Fasting In Women With PCOS: A Meta-analysis Of Randomized Trials

Abstract Disclosure: C. Dos Santos: None. A. Dominguez-Bali: None. C. Dominguez-Bali: None. S. Verma: None. P.I. Godspower: None. D. Alame: None. L. Yousif: None. S. Escobar: None. This meta-analysis aimed to quantify the effects of intermittent fasting (IF) on metabolic and endocrine outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to evaluate its efficacy relative to standard dietary approaches. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Scopus through April 2024, following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included randomized and controlled trials evaluating IF interventions—such as time-restricted feeding (TRF) or alternate-day fasting (ADF)—in women diagnosed with PCOS. Primary outcomes assessed were fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, serum testosterone, body mass index (BMI), and menstrual regularity. Data were synthesized using a random-effects model, with heterogeneity assessed via the I² statistic.A total of ten studies, including 632 women with PCOS, met inclusion criteria. Intermittent fasting was associated with significant improvements in insulin sensitivity (standardized mean difference [SMD] −0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.89 to −0.34), reductions in serum testosterone levels (mean difference [MD] −13.4 ng/dL; 95% CI, −18.1 to −8.7), and modest weight loss (MD −3.6 kg; 95% CI, −5.0 to −2.2). An increase in sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG) was observed (SMD +0.41), and 65% to 78% of participants demonstrated improved menstrual regularity within 8 to 12 weeks of intervention. Heterogeneity ranged from moderate to high across outcomes (I² = 40%–75%).These findings suggest that intermittent fasting is a promising, non-pharmacologic strategy for addressing the metabolic and endocrine dysfunctions associated with PCOS. By reducing hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenism while promoting weight loss and cycle regularity, IF may serve as an effective adjunct or alternative to calorie-restricted diets. Future studies should focus on long-term outcomes, optimal fasting protocols, and the mechanistic underpinnings of IF’s benefits in the PCOS population. Presentation: Saturday, July 12, 2025