How Fasting Affects Your Mood—It Depends on Your Body Type.

A 2025 feasibility trial by Meinlschmidt et al. studied 54 women with and without obesity after a 10-hour daytime fast. Both groups reported increased hunger and lower satiety, but mood effects differed: women with obesity experienced more depression and anger, while non-obese women mainly reported increased fatigue .

There were no major changes in key brain-supporting factors like BDNF, but the study highlights that even short-term fasting affects appetite and mood—especially for those with obesity. Personalized fasting strategies are essential for physical and emotional well-being.

Start slow with fasting. Pay attention to how it makes you feel—not just what the scale says.