Impact of Intermittent Fasting on the Mental Health of Perimenopausal Women

This study explores whether intermittent fasting (IF) can improve psychological well-being during a critical life stage. Intermittent fasting, particularly the popular 16/8 method, fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8-hour window, has gained attention for its potential health benefits, including better metabolic function, hormonal balance, and cognitive performance. However, the impact on mental health among women in perimenopause remains largely unexplored. Perimenopause, which typically occurs between ages of 45 and 55, is a transitional phase marked by hormonal fluctuations that can cause mood changes, depression, anxiety, cognitive fog, poor sleep, and physical discomfort. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common solution, many women seek non-pharmacological alternatives due to concerns about side effects. This six-month randomized controlled trial aims to fill that gap by assessing whether intermittent fasting can positively influence mental health outcomes compared to standard dietary guidelines. The research will be conducted at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) and will involve 98 women in perimenopause, with up to 140 recruited to account for potential dropouts. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group, which will follow a 16/8 intermittent fasting regimen, or the control group, which will follow the Lebanese food-based dietary guidelines. Mental health will be assessed through validated measures such as the PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index for sleep quality, alongside assessments of body satisfaction, cognitive function, sexual health, and BMI. Data will be collected at baseline and follow-up intervals at 6,12, and 24 weeks. Women in the fasting group will receive guidance on the 16/8 schedule and weekly calls to encourage adherence and monitor side effects such as fatigue or low blood sugar. Any participant showing signs of severe distress or health issues will be referred for free medical or mental health support and withdrawn from the study if necessary. By focusing on mental health during perimenopause, this research seeks to provide a safe, cost-effective alternative to medication, potentially helping women manage symptoms and improve quality.