Scientists at the University of Illinois (UIC) have found that time-restricted eating, also known as intermittent fasting, can help people with type 2 diabetes lose weight and lower blood sugar levels. The study was published in the journal JAMA Network Open.
As part of the experiment, 75 participants were divided into three groups: the first restricted eating to an eight-hour window from 12 noon to 8 p.m., the second reduced calories by 25%, and the third ate as usual.
Participants who did intermittent fasting lost more weight in six months than participants who reduced calories. The reduction in blood sugar levels was the same, but intermittent fasting significantly reduced glycosylated hemoglobin levels. This indicator allows you to estimate your average blood sugar level over the past three months. The result means that intermittent fasting allowed participants to keep their sugar levels within the normal range for longer.
Participants also noted that intermittent fasting was easier than counting calories. Additionally, although people in the time-restricted eating group were not advised to reduce their calorie intake, this was because the risk of overeating was ultimately reduced.
No serious side effects were reported during the six-month study.
More people are developing type 2 diabetes due to increased obesity, so finding more options for these patients to manage their weight and blood sugar levels is critical. Future studies will need to confirm the scientists’ results. All patients with diabetes should consult their doctor before changing their diet.
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