Pre-diabetes is a condition that if not treated often leads to type 2 diabetes within five years. Losing weight, moving more, and eating a healthy diet can help fight off developing type 2 diabetes. “When you lose weight, you become more insulin-sensitive,” says Politi. “It drives the blood sugar down.”
When we eat, our body releases insulin into the bloodstream to supply the cells with energy, but those who are pre-diabetic are insulin-resistant, which means their blood sugar levels remain elevated. Intermittent fasting may help those who are pre-diabetic because it requires the body to produce insulin less often, explains Foroutan. “If you are pre-diabetic or have a history of diabetes in the family, this type of diet can be helpful.” Research has shown promise in backing up these claims: A study published in the journal Cell in 2017 found that a diet mimicking fasting cycles could restore insulin secretion and promote the generation of new insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells in mice with type 1 and 2 diabetes. While further research still needs to be done, early studies on human cell samples suggest similar potential.