Intermittent fasting in the management of diabetes: a review of glycemic control and safety.

This article critically reviews clinical studies on the effects of intermittent fasting (IF) regimens on glycemic control in patients with prediabetes, type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). While IF may provide modest improvements in glycemic markers such as fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), its benefits are generally comparable to those of control diets, and safety concerns—particularly the risk of hypoglycemia—are notable in patients receiving insulin therapy. The review highlights the importance of continuous glucose monitoring and personalized insulin adjustments during IF, especially for T1DM patients, and emphasizes that IF should be considered within the broader context of lifestyle interventions including nutrition, exercise, and sleep. Overall, IF is not currently recommended as a superior dietary strategy for diabetes management but may be safely practiced under medical supervision with individualized care.