Hematological changes during intermittent fasting in rats

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26641/1997-9665.2025.4.30-35

Keywords:

intermittent fasting, hematological parameters, erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets, rats.

Abstract

Background. Intermittent fasting is gaining popularity as an effective strategy for correcting metabolic disorders. However, the effect of different intermittent fasting regimens on peripheral blood parameters remains insufficiently studied, which limits understanding of the body's adaptive mechanisms to periodic dietary restriction. Objective. To investigate the dynamics of hematological parameters in rats during intermittent fasting according to the «day of feeding : day of fasting» scheme for different exposure periods. Methods. The experiment was conducted on 72 white male rats divided into one control series (CS1, n=18) and three experimental series: ES2 (n=18) – one week of intermittent fasting, ES3 (n=18) – two weeks, ES4 (n=18) – one month. Control animals were fed in normal regime. Peripheral blood analysis was performed on an automatic hematology analyzer with determination of erythrocyte, leukocyte and platelet parameters. Results. Changes in hematological parameters were detected in experimental groups. Hemoglobin level in ES2 group was 128.67±14.33 g/L, ES3 – 127.00±8.10 g/L, ES4 – 135.17±11.91 g/L compared to control 125.33±10.16 g/L. Hematocrit increased from 35.50±2.09% in control to 41.57±3.67% in ES4 group. A significant increase in leukocyte count was detected: in ES2 group – 12.38±4.80×10⁹/L (2.16-fold), ES3 – 11.50±5.17×10⁹/L (2.01-fold), ES4 – 9.48±5.68×10⁹/L (1.65-fold) compared to control 5.73±1.28×10⁹/L, indicating immune system activation. Platelet count remained within physiological limits. Conclusion. Intermittent fasting according to the «day of feeding : day of fasting» scheme causes adaptive changes in hematological parameters in rats. There is a tendency towards increased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels with prolonged regimen application. Pronounced activation of leukopoiesis is the most constant feature of blood system response to intermittent fasting, reflecting the immunomodulatory effect of this dietary regimen.

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Published

2025-10-30

How to Cite

Gordienko , H., & Sikora , V. (2025). Hematological changes during intermittent fasting in rats. Морфологія / Morphologia / Morfologìâ, 19(4), 30–35. https://doi.org/10.26641/1997-9665.2025.4.30-35

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Vol. 19 No. 4 (2025)

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