Table 1: Areas that
merit further research.
Areas of interest |
Current knowledge and future directions |
Dates and obesity |
‘Ajwa’ (a variety of Saudi dates) has been
demonstrated to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective
properties in animal models [74]. However,
there are limited on its effect in humans. It has been postulated that leptin
resistance is probably involved in the pathogenesis of obesity, and the
effects of Ajwa dates on weight maintenance/loss can be investigated. |
Black seeds and obesity |
A recent trial showed that the consumption of
black seeds and turmeric improved metabolic parameters in patients with
metabolic syndrome [75].
Further research over longer periods should be conducted to investigate the
effect of black seeds on body weight. |
Dietary regimens that alter gut microbiota |
Gut microbiota plays an important role in weight
maintenance [76]. Previous
researches suggest that honey [77] and yogurt [78] help in maintaining
healthy gut flora and promote weight stability. Another study suggests that
dates alter gut microbiota and prevent colorectal cancer [79]. Further
randomized controlled trials are however recommended to investigate this
finding. |
Systematic reviews on the benefits of Ramadan
fasting, fasting and weight maintenance, as well as the effect of Thursday
and Monday fasting |
Fasting and weight gain/loss are major areas of
interest for researchers [80]. Randomized controlled
trials/meta analyses should be conducted to explore the long-term effects of
different fasting regimens in obese patients. |
The association between Ramadan fasting and sleep patterns |
It has been suggested
the sleep-wake cycle is altered during Ramadan [81]. In addition, it
is known that eating patterns in Ramadan have implications on body metabolism
and biochemical markers and fasting causes an increase in the levels of
high-density lipoprotein [81]. Randomized
controlled trials should be conducted to explore the effects of fasting on
health, including its effect on glucose homeostasis, insulin metabolism, and
blood pressure [81]. |
Breastfeeding |
Findings
from a meta-analysis suggest that breastfeeding is a significant protective
factor against obesity in children [48]. Nevertheless,
more research has to be conducted to investigate the association between
breastfeeding and obesity. |