Fasting is not a new practice as it has been practiced for millennia by various cultures. Intermittent fasting has been demonstrated in research to have an effect on lower blood pressure, blood sugar, total cholesterol, and weight loss. However, is it safe for people with diabetes? Continue reading to learn more about the benefits and risks of intermittent fasting.
What is Intermittent Fasting?
Intermittent fasting is a meal strategy that restricts the time when you are allowed to eat. While there are numerous approaches that you can attempt. Some individuals choose to alternate their eating days, others restrict the number of calories they consume, and some have a set time that you are not allowed to eat. However, before embarking on such a diet, you should seek the advice of a medical professional, such as a dietitian or physician.
Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
According to several studies, when carried out properly, intermittent fasting may have health benefits such as weight loss for persons with diabetes. People who follow the eating plan and lose weight may be able to lessen the amount of diabetic medication they use. Other possible advantages include enhanced insulin sensitivity, reduced blood pressure, and decreased appetite.
Risks of Intermittent Fasting
However, it may pose some dangers. Major changes in eating habits may cause severe swings in blood sugar levels. When your blood sugar becomes dangerously low, it is called hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is a disorder that causes symptoms such as chills, confusion, irritability, shakiness, tiredness, and rapid heartbeats.
High blood sugar is another possible risk of intermittent fasting for diabetics. This is referred to as hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia can quickly develop if you consume more than you normally do, which is more likely to occur if you are very famished after a fast. Issues faced by people with diabetes such as high blood pressure, heart disease, neuropathy, renal disease, and stroke can all be further exacerbated by high blood sugar levels.
Safety Precautions to Take
If you want to attempt intermittent fasting, be sure to follow these pointers. You will need to regularly monitor your blood sugar levels through the OKRA Pro Starter Kit Bundle especially since long fasting periods can cause them to drop dangerously low. Ensure that you have plenty of unexpired test strips by opting for the OKRA Care diabetic test refill kit. When attempting a diet that may influence your blood sugar levels, you may have to alter your diabetes prescription. Your doctor may advise you about the adjusted medicine or insulin dosages that you will have to take. Check with yourself to see how you're feeling. Many people discover that controlling their food consumption has a significant impact on their mood. Keep an eye out for symptoms such as irritability, heightened anxiety, and problems coping with stress.
If intermittent fasting proves to be too dangerous for your health, you can consider other alternatives. You can try to experiment with various methods such as reducing your portion sizes, increasing more exercise sessions in between your meals, or even choosing healthier food options. Try to make sure that these lifestyle changes support your diabetes management by checking with your doctor beforehand.