A Radical Approach to Insulin Resistance: Fasting + KETO Diet for a Healthier Tomorrow ...
National Keto Day 2025 (5th January, annual)
DigiPaxMen-05012024. - Today, January 5th, marks National Keto Day, a timely reminder of the growing global health challenge of insulin resistance and diabetes. These conditions, often linked to modern dietary habits with their abundance of processed sugars, represent a significant burden on individuals and healthcare systems worldwide.
Why Digit PaxMentis, eco-friendly slow fashion and positive brand PoM and its community Maverick's Cove support the National KETO Day ? - Read here.
Some recent facts ...
Diabetes facts and figures show the growing global burden for individuals, families, and countries. - The IDF Diabetes Atlas (2021) reports that 10.5% of the adult population (20-79 years) has diabetes, with almost half unaware that they are living with the condition (Source: IDF - Intern. Diabetes Federation)
By 2045, IDF projections show that 1 in 8 adults, approximately 783 million, will be living with diabetes, an increase of 46%.
(Image Map Source: IDF Atlas 2021)
Over 90% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes, which is driven by socio-economic, demographic, environmental, and genetic factors. The key contributors to the rise in type 2 diabetes include:
Urbanisation
An ageing population
Decreasing levels of physical activity
Increasing overweight and obesity prevalence
Insulin resistance occurs when the body's cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. This can lead to elevated blood sugar, paving the way for prediabetes and eventually, type 2 diabetes. The consequences are far-reaching, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and various other health complications.
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Fasting ...
While traditional approaches focus on medication and lifestyle modifications, a growing body of research highlights the potential of fasting as a powerful tool to combat insulin resistance.
Water fasting, a complete abstention from food for a defined period, has been shown to significantly improve insulin sensitivity. During fasting, the body shifts its energy source from glucose to stored fat, a process known as ketosis. This metabolic switch not only aids in weight loss but also allows the body to reset its insulin response, effectively improving insulin sensitivity.
Intermittent fasting, a more sustainable approach, involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. The 16/8 method, where one fasts for 16 hours and eats within an 8-hour window, has gained popularity for its potential metabolic benefits. Studies suggest that intermittent fasting can improve insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, and reduce inflammation.
Fasting, however, is not a magic bullet. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before embarking on any fasting regimen, particularly for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, pregnant women, or those on medication.
After fasting, the focus shifts to maintaining the achieved metabolic improvements. The ketogenic diet, a low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan, has emerged as a potential long-term strategy. The keto diet forces the body into a state of ketosis, mimicking the metabolic effects of fasting. By reducing carbohydrate intake, the body is compelled to burn fat for fuel, leading to weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity. This diet, originally developed to manage seizures in children, has gained recognition for its potential benefits in managing weight and insulin resistance.
However, a keto diet requires careful planning and monitoring, as it can pose risks if not implemented correctly. While research suggests its efficacy in improving glycemic control and reducing cardiovascular risk factors, long-term studies are needed to fully assess its sustainability and potential side effects.
Therefore, embracing a mindful lifestyle that prioritizes whole foods, regular physical activity, and stress management alongside dietary interventions is key to long-term metabolic health.Thanks for reading Maverick's Cove @ Substack! This post is public so feel free to share it.
Summary ...
National Keto Day serves as a potent reminder that managing insulin resistance and diabetes requires a multifaceted approach. Combining the potential benefits of fasting with a sustainable keto diet and healthy lifestyle practices empowers individuals to take control of their metabolic health and strive for a healthier future.