Fasting with diabetes: Benefits, risks,  and personalisation

By Rajeshwaari Kalla | October 8, 2025 | Image: Canva

Hormone balance

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During fasting, insulin levels fall while glucose rises, promoting liver glycogen breakdown, and glucose release

Insulin sensitivity rises

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Short‑term fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance in type 2 diabetics.

Glycemic control improvement

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Some intermittent fasting trials record lower HbA₁c levels and fasting glucose  in diabetic subjects over months.

Weight reduction aid

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Fasting often contributes to weight loss, which in turn helps reduce insulin resistance and improve metabolic health

Glycemic effects wane

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The metabolic benefits of fasting seen in short term tend to diminish or align with control diets after longer time periods.

Risk of hypoglycemia

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In type 1 diabetics or those on insulin/secretagogues, fasting heightens the danger of low blood sugar episodes without careful adjustment.

Inflammation reduction potential

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Fasting or restricted eating may reduce inflammatory biomarkers like CRP, which is linked to insulin resistance.

Hormonal stress interaction

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Chronic stress and cortisol surges can blunt fasting benefits by raising blood glucose even when you’re not eating.

Oxidative stress spikes

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A sudden glucose intake after prolonged fast in diabetic patients can provoke oxidative stress and metabolic stress.

Personalised approach necessary

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Responses to fasting vary, age, medications, insulin dosage,  disease stage all require a tailored  plan under medical supervision.

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