Subject: Re: Intermittent Fasting
I can testify to a positive response to modified intermittent fasting.

I have a strong family history of Type 2 diabetes. My dad and his brother both developed it and both had renal failure, with my uncle doing 10+ years of dialysis. So I monitored my A1c and fasting sugars. Had been fine despite stress-related weight issues up until I retired. When I retired, I actually lost 25 pounds and markedly improved my activity levels. Thinking I had just earned years to staving off disease, I was surprised to find elevating fasting sugars and within two years an A1c of 6.2, confirming my diagnosis. Went on meds (just Metformin) with an initial good response. Despite trimming a few more pounds off, after a good initial drop, my A1c slipped up a tenth. While not an immediate threat, it still made me wonder since it developed after a good weight loss. Decided to be more aggressive.

Diabetic education was a waste. But from my education and reading, the key seemed to be more weight loss with a focus on core body fat to reduce insulin resistance. Intermittent fasting seemed the best approach. But most of studies had whole day fasts (36 hours three times a week) or strict time lines for eating. I wanted something to work into my life style as well as not make it hard on my wife or modify her life. I decided that skipping breakfast might be the best, in addition do it when I do my set aerobic exercising on MWF mornings. I simply on those mornings don't eat until after 12 and more commonly 1. That simple change has resulted in another 25 pounds off over the last 3 months, typically 1-3 pounds a week. The holidays and some grandparent duties have generated some hiccups but typically stable weight, not gaining.

It is incredibly easy, without any stress or issues. I am now at a weight that I last saw when I started college 40+ years ago. It has not disrupted our family life and it is part of my life style now. I am excited to see what my A1c is in a month, but can already tell you my fastings are now normal.

My message is that it can have benefits without doing 36 hour fasts, or only one meal a day, or forcing a tight eating schedule. Simply skipping breakfast combined with exercising is simple and easy and is absolutely working for me.

Best of luck to all,

Lakedog