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08:06
Assessment of the Metabolic Effects of Isocaloric 2:1 Intermittent Fasting in Mice
Published on: November 27, 2019
Intermittent fasting to treat diabetes: time to update clinical practice guidelines
Krista A Varady1, Lisa S Chow2, Courtney M Peterson3
1Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, University of Illinois-Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
The Lancet. Diabetes & Endocrinology
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Intermittent fasting effectively improves glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, comparable to calorie restriction. Evidence supports its inclusion as a lifestyle option for managing type 2 diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Diseases
- Dietary Interventions
Background:
- Intermittent fasting (IF) is a popular dietary approach.
- Despite numerous trials, IF is not yet standard in diabetes care guidelines.
- Current guidelines lack IF recommendations for diabetes management.
Purpose of the Study:
- Synthesize evidence on IF in various diabetes types.
- Evaluate IF's efficacy and safety for glycemic control.
- Advocate for IF integration into clinical practice guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of clinical trials on IF in diabetes.
- Analysis of IF's impact on HbA1c, glucose levels, and body weight.
- Comparison of IF with calorie restriction and usual care.
Main Results:
- IF significantly reduces HbA1c, fasting glucose, and body weight in type 2 diabetes.
- IF demonstrates comparable efficacy to calorie restriction for glycemic control.
- Evidence for IF in type 1 and gestational diabetes is insufficient.
Conclusions:
- IF is a viable lifestyle option for type 2 diabetes management.
- Clinical guidelines should incorporate IF for type 2 diabetes.
- Practical guidance for clinicians on IF implementation is needed.
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