Does Intermittent Fasting Work?
There is an emerging body of evidence that shows the benefits of intermittent fasting for type 2 diabetes and obesity are similar to those of a calorie restricted diet, but easier to follow. Research shows intermittent fasting is beneficial in reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, lowering heart rate, lowering cholesterol, and reducing insulin resistance.
A recently published study in February 2017 highlights the benefits of intermittent fasting. People in the study were separated into two groups. One group ate a regular diet. The second group followed a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) consisting of 750 to 1,100 calories per day, for five consecutive days each month for three months. The FMD group was able to decrease body mass index, glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation). Moreover, those who were at risk of diabetes benefited more from the fast than participants who were not at risk.
Is Fasting Right for You?
If you take insulin or medications to control your blood glucose, intermittent fasting can increase your risk for hypoglycemia—low blood sugar. You may require a medication adjustment before going on a fast. As with any diet, you should first talk it over with your healthcare provider or diabetes health team to determine if intermittent fasting is right for you.
Intermittent fasting is not recommended for pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding, the elderly, individuals under the age of 20, people who are underweight and anyone with an eating disorder. Fasting may also not be good for people who take certain types of medications, such as beta-blockers.
Constance Brown-Riggs, MSEd, RD, CDE, CDN is a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, national speaker and author of The African American Guide to Living Well with Diabetes.. She is Dannon One Yogurt Every Day Nutrition Advisor.