Intermittent Fasting and Low-Carb Diets for Diabetes

Dr. Mindy Pelz, a celebrity health expert, advocates for intermittent fasting tailored to menstrual cycles for women to maintain hormonal balance and suggests varying fasting patterns for men to optimize health benefits. Additionally, recent studies indicate that switching to a low-carbohydrate diet may significantly improve beta-cell function in individuals with type 2 diabetes, potentially allowing them to reduce or discontinue medication. The research, led by Professor Barbara Gower from the University of Alabama, involved 57 adults and found that those on a low-carb diet (9% carbohydrates and 65% fat) experienced notable improvements in beta-cell responsiveness compared to those on high-carb diets. This dietary approach, emphasizing higher protein and fat intake while minimizing carbs, could help manage blood sugar levels more effectively. The findings suggest that dietary interventions can play a crucial role in diabetes management, offering an alternative to medication. Further research is needed to explore the long-term benefits and potential applications of such dietary changes.