Although many health markers improve with intermittent fasting, one finding came as a surprise: LDL cholesterol levels rose on average across all age groups. Previous analyses had reported that intermittent fasting typically lowers LDL cholesterol https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-06-fasting-waistlines-exposing-dieters.html Following the fast, participants' LDL cholesterol levels tended to rise across most age groups. This raised concerns. As one of the authors warns: "The general risk of elevated LDL cholesterol across all age groups necessitates careful monitoring of blood lipid levels." Therefore, regular cholesterol testing is essential for those who fast in order to safeguard heart health, even if blood sugar and triglyceride levels improve