Social media is full of trends about diet and fitness. Fasting has become very popular. From OMAD to intermittent fasting, it’s all about when you eat, not just what. Many people talk about intermittent fasting as if it’s a quick fix, but it’s important to understand what it really is before trying it. This type of fasting isn’t suitable for everyone. It doesn’t work the same for all people trying to lose weight.

In an interview with a Lifestyle magazine, Bhakti Samant, the Chief Dietician at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, explained if intermittent fasting is safe for everyone or not. She started by explaining the basics. She said, “Intermittent fasting (IF) means eating during certain hours and fasting at other times. Common methods include the 16:8 plan, where you fast for 16 hours and eat during an 8-hour window. Others are fasting every other day or sticking to the 5:2 diet. Studies show IF can help with weight loss, better insulin use, and less inflammation. But it’s not right for everyone. People with health problems like diabetes should be careful. Some with type 1 diabetes, those on insulin, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with eating problems, or complex medical issues should avoid fasting or do it only with a doctor’s guidance.”

The dietitian strongly recommends talking to a healthcare provider before starting any fasting plan.

Who can benefit from intermittent fasting?

• Intermittent Fasting can help healthy people control their calories and improve health markers.
• It may aid weight loss by cutting down on snacking and helping people pay attention to what they eat.
• Some research shows it could also boost heart health and lower the chances of chronic illnesses.
• But, success depends on eating balanced, healthy meals during the eating times and not binging when not fasting.

Who should be cautious about trying intermittent fasting?

• IF may have harmful side effects for diabetics, especially those taking insulin or drugs like sulfonylureas.
• Hypoglycemia, a condition in which blood sugar levels drop too low as a result of prolonged fasting, is one of the most dangerous dangers. Symptoms might include fainting, disorientation, and dizziness. According to a study published in Diabetes Care, type 2 diabetes individuals had a greater risk of experiencing hypoglycemic events after IF as opposed to those who followed regular meal plans.
• Additionally, there is the risk of rebound hyperglycemia, which is a surge in blood sugar following fasting, especially if you eat a lot of carbohydrates during the eating window. According to research published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, which cautions about swings in glucose levels during extended fasting, this rollercoaster effect can impair glucose regulation and exacerbate long-term diabetes problems.
• Nutritional deficits are another issue. People may miss vital nutrients due to their restricted eating time, particularly if they don't plan their meals carefully. According to a review published in Nutrients, IF may result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies, which are especially harmful to diabetics.

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