Is fasting beneficial for lowering blood sugar?

Generally, short-term fasting can be beneficial for lowering blood glucose levels, but frequent hunger is not advisable. The specific approach should be determined based on individual circumstances. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Benefits

When the body lacks food over a prolonged period, it begins to break down fat and muscle to provide energy, which leads to decreased blood glucose levels. Additionally, during starvation, the body produces a stored energy substance called muscle glycogen for emergency use, and also generates substances known as ketone bodies, which further contribute to lower blood glucose levels. However, this method is not recommended in diabetes management. The state of hunger triggers the production of stress hormones, which stimulate increased insulin secretion and may consequently raise blood glucose levels, potentially counteracting any benefits from reduced glucose. Therefore, in diabetes treatment, blood glucose control is typically achieved through dietary management and exercise therapy.

2. Drawbacks

During periods of hunger, the breakdown of fats and proteins produces large amounts of metabolic waste that must be processed by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Over time, this can lead to damage in liver and kidney function. Frequent hunger causing low blood sugar can significantly harm the body; severe hypoglycemia may impair the central nervous system and lead to malnutrition, weakened immunity, cardiovascular diseases, and other health problems.

Proper diet and exercise therapy form the foundation of diabetes management. It is also essential to follow medical advice and pay attention to the prevention and treatment of diabetic complications.