Impact of fasting on the selected anthropometric and physiological parameters of young adults attending Federal College of Agricultural Produce Technology, Kano, Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluate / investigate the impacts of Ramadan Kareem on the selected anthropometric index and physiological parameter of young adults attending FCAPT Kano. The anthropometric parameters were assessed using a measuring tape role, weighing scale, height role while the physiological parameters were measured using BP monitoring meter, blood pressure systolic, diastolic and pulse rate respectively. The results obtained among the students for pre-ramadan and post Ramadan fasting period shows that the weight obtained had a mean value (47.40±7.73) Pre-Ramadan and (44.13±7.96) Post Ramadan. BMI had a mean value at Pre-Ramadan (18.69±2.31), Post Ramadan (17.72±2.42), the results of Pectoral circumstance (cm) had a mean value at Pre-Ramadan (81.85 ± 5.75) and Post-Ramadan was (79.67±9.59), MUAC had a mean value (23.31 ± 2.29) during Pre-Ramadan and (22.75±3.02), Post-Ramadan. The results of waist circumference (cm) had a mean value of (68.37±8.96) during at Pre-Ramadan period and (67.65±8.92), during Post-Ramadan, the Hip circumference had a mean value of (87.47±8.96) in Pre-Ramadan period and the 88.12±8.13, in Post-Ramadan period. These findings showed that the thigh Circumference (cm) of the respondents had a mean value of 46.94±10.51 during Pre-Ramadan with a significant increase in the thigh circumference (48.72±13.44) during and Post-Ramadan, Waist to Hip Ratio of the respondent was significant at P<0.05 during pre and post ramadan with a mean value of 0.787±0.102 in Pre-Ramadan period and 0.744±0.065 in the Post-Ramadan respectively. The physiological parameters analyzed among the respondents during pre-ramadan period showed that the systolic blood pressure at Pre-Ramadan had a mean value of 113.54±14.63 and 106.18±22.02 during Post-Ramadan and the Diastolic blood pressure at Pre-Ramadan had a mean value of 74.46 ± 17.43, with a significant difference at P>0.05 which was higher than the results obtained during Post-Ramadan period with a mean value of 72.14±.20.49, the Pulse rate at Pre-Ramadan period had a mean value of 97.54±19.90 which was significantly higher than the results obtained in Post-Ramadan (91.00±15.38) period. Hence, it's important to note that individual variations exist, and these changes depend on personal habits and dietary choices. Therefore, monitoring and maintaining a balanced approach to diet and lifestyle are crucial during and after Ramadan. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance for optimizing health during this period.