Diabetes and fasting

Studies have shown that fasting can efficiently reduce type 2 diabetes risk, improve insulin sensitivity, and lower blood pressure.

Before the discovery of insulin, fasting helped manage type 1 diabetes. Today, it supports diagnosing diabetes and risk factor assessment. Additionally, fasting’s potential to reduce and possibly reverse type 2 diabetes is gaining recognition.

Embracing fasting as part of lifestyle changes can lead to better health. Different fasting methods, such as intermittent fasting, offer various benefits. Some research shows that fasting 16 hours of the day and eating within an 8-hour window may help lower blood glucose levels and lose weight in the short term. Furthermore, there is evidence that type 2 diabetes remission is possible by following an intermittent fasting diet.

How fasting works

Fasting works by mobilising glucose and fat for energy. In the first fasting stage, the body mobilises all the glucose for energy. When there is no more glucose for energy, alpha cells in the pancreas produce glucagon and release it in response to a drop in glucose. Glucagon, a hormone produced by the pancreas to regulate blood glucose levels, helps to break down fat, particularly in the pancreas, liver, and visceral areas, creating ketones for energy. The hormone glucagon further elevates the benefits of fasting by preventing glucose levels from dropping too low.

Possible complications from fasting

Although it does have many benefits, fasting is not recommended for everyone. Due to the metabolic nature of the condition, people with diabetes are at particular risk of complications from marked changes in food and liquid intake.

Fasting with diabetes can lead to complications that include:

• Low blood glucose (hypoglycaemia)
• High blood glucose (hyperglycaemia)
• Dehydration
• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), in people with type 1 diabetes

Before starting a fast, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to learn about any associated risks and complications and create a fasting management plan. Discussing medication adjustments and monitoring glucose levels should also be part of the plan.