Updated
Updated · Hindustan Times · Jun 21
Dietitian Warns 5 Groups Against Intermittent Fasting, Citing Diabetes and Organ Risks
Updated
Updated · Hindustan Times · Jun 21

Dietitian Warns 5 Groups Against Intermittent Fasting, Citing Diabetes and Organ Risks

1 articles · Updated · Hindustan Times · Jun 21

Summary

  • Dr. Kanchana Dayanand said intermittent fasting should not be followed blindly, warning against it for people with Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes or high HbA1c without medical supervision, pregnant or lactating women, children and teenagers, and patients with renal or cardiac conditions.
  • 16:8 and 12:12 fasting plans may help metabolic health and reduce constant digestive load, she said, but long fasting gaps can trigger headaches, fatigue, dizziness and gut problems including bloating, diarrhoea or constipation.
  • Medical guidance is especially important for people with blood sugar issues and eating disorders, while younger people were advised to avoid fasting because they need steady nutrition for growth, bone health and muscle strength.
  • 16:8 fasting should begin only after easing in with smaller steps such as skipping snacks, reducing carbohydrate portions and improving diet quality, according to the dietitian's advice.

Insights

If fasting's main benefit is simply calorie reduction, are we overlooking safer health strategies?
As fasting grows more popular, who is being secretly harmed by this global diet trend?
Beyond weight loss, can fasting truly repair your gut and sharpen your brain as proponents claim?