Show 1143: Can You Control Your Blood Sugar by Fasting?

Type 2 diabetes has reached epidemic levels in the US and around the world. Although endocrinologists consider it a chronic, progressive disorder, some experts have seen that it is potentially reversible and may be preventable. What approaches are helpful? What role could fasting play? Nephrologist Jason Fung, MD, says that you can’t manage a dietary disease without considering diet. There are two important considerations. Dietary Considerations: What Do You Eat? First, how much sugar is in the diet? Fructose, which is part of sugar, can contribute to problems with insulin and blood sugar. A diet low in refined carbohydrates is less likely to contribute to trouble controlling insulin and blood sugar. Should You Be Fasting? Second, when do you eat? A schedule that restricts eating to no more than six or eight hours a day has been shown to help restore metabolic health. Fasting for two or three days a week can even reverse insulin resistance, as Dr. Fung and his colleagues documented in the case studies they published recently (BMJ Case Reports, Oct. 9, 2018). Three people with diabetes who had required insulin were able to reduce their HbA1c, their waist circumference and their weight. As a result of therapeutic fasting, they no longer need insulin to control their blood sugar. This Week’s Guest: Dr. Jason Fung is a Canadian nephrologist. He’s a world-leading expert on intermittent fasting and low-carbohydrate diet, especially for treating people with type 2 diabetes.  He has written three bestselling health books and co-founded the Intensive Dietary Management program.  Dr. Fung’s latest book is The Diabetes Code, Prevent and Reverse Type 2 Diabetes Naturally.    His website is idmprogram.com Listen to the Podcast: The podcast of this program will be available the Monday after the broadcast date. The show can be streamed online from this site and podcasts can be downloaded for free. CDs may be purchased at any time after broadcast for $9.99. Buy the CD Download the mp3