Fasting Can Help To Manage Sugar Blood, Study Says

A small study suggests that a form of intermittent fasting known as "early time-restricted feeding" may help improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity. The study, published in the journal Cell Metabolism, found that people who restricted their eating to a 6-hour window in the early part of the day had lower blood sugar levels and improved metabolic health markers compared to those who ate over a longer period.

In the study, researchers divided 11 men at risk of type 2 diabetes into two groups. One group practiced early time-restricted feeding, eating all their meals between 8 am and 2 pm. The other group ate over a 12-hour period from 8 am to 8 pm. After five weeks, the early feeding group had lower blood sugar levels, smaller spikes in blood sugar after meals, and higher insulin sensitivity compared to the 12-hour feeding group. They also had lower levels of ghrelin, the "hunger hormone."

Intermittent fasting, including time-restricted feeding, has gained popularity in recent years. Some research suggests it may have benefits for weight loss, heart health, and longevity. This new study provides evidence that a specific type of intermittent fasting, early time-restricted feeding, could help improve blood sugar control and reduce health risks associated with prediabetes or diabetes.

The researchers noted some important limitations, including the small sample size and short study duration. However, they said the findings warrant larger, longer-term studies to further evaluate the effects of early time-restricted feeding on blood sugar and metabolic health. If the results are confirmed, it could provide an simple lifestyle intervention to help manage blood sugar levels and reduce diabetes risk.

The study was funded by grants from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and the American Diabetes Association. The researchers declared no conflicts of interest.