Intermittent fasting may help Type 2 diabetes patients discontinue medication, according to a small study published in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. After an intermittent fasting diet intervention, most patients achieved complete diabetes remission — defined as having a stable HbA1c, or average blood sugar, level of less than 6.5% for at least three months — after discontinuing all anti-diabetic medications.
The study involved 36 participants who had type 2 diabetes and were aged 38 and 72. The participants completed a one-year fasting intervention program that included daily fasting. At the end of the trial, 17 participants achieved complete diabetes remission after 3 months of intervention, while an additional 16 participants showed partial remission with reduced medication doses or improved ranges in blood sugar levels without medication after a 12-month assessment.
The researchers concluded that intermittent fasting could be an effective treatment for Type 2 diabetes, noting that it has relatively few side effects and is cheaper than most diabetes medications. However, they cautioned that larger studies are needed to confirm the findings.
The study shows promise for people with Type 2 diabetes who are looking for an alternative to medication, or perhaps even a way to reduce their reliance on it. If further research confirms the results of this study, intermittent fasting may offer a promising new way to manage type 2 diabetes.
A Closer Look at Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting is an increasingly popular dieting and lifestyle approach that involves alternating periods of eating with periods of fasting. It has been gaining traction in the health, nutrition, and fitness communities due to its purported health benefits, including improved heart health, weight loss, and reduced inflammation. But what is intermittent fasting exactly? Let’s take a closer look at this dietary trend.
How Does it Work?
Intermittent fasting is a pattern of eating that involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. Depending on the type of intermittent fasting plan you choose, you will either fast for a certain number of hours each day or switch between days of eating normally, then days of fasting (or consuming very few calories). Some popular approaches to intermittent fasting include alternate-day fasting (eating a normal diet one day and either completely fast or have one small meal (less than 500 calories) the next day), 5:2 fasting (eating a normal diet five days a week and fast two days a week), and daily time-restricted fasting (eating normally but only within an eight-hour window each day).
Potential Benefits
According to the Mayo Clinic, some studies suggest that it may be beneficial in terms of reducing inflammation and improving conditions associated with inflammation such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Arthritis, Asthma, Multiple Sclerosis, and Stroke. Additionally, studies have also shown potential benefits in terms of improving heart health as well as aiding weight loss by helping people reduce calorie intake without feeling deprived or hungry.
While more research needs to be done on the long-term effects of intermittent fasting, it may be worth exploring if you’re looking for ways to improve your overall health. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting any new diet program to ensure it is safe for you. With careful planning and monitoring from your healthcare provider though, intermittent fasting could help you reach your goals!
Type 2 Diabetes and Intermittent Fasting
Nevertheless, it’s important for people with Type 2 diabetes to always consult a healthcare professional before changing their diet or halting any medications. Additionally, people should not attempt intermittent fasting without prior clearance from their doctor. Doing so could worsen their condition and potentially lead to dangerous complications.
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This article is intended for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only and should not be construed as advice, guidance or counsel. It is provided without warranty of any kind.