Type 2 diabetes poses significant global health challenges, affecting both the quality of life and healthcare systems. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of fasting and fasting-mimicking diets (FMD) in managing type 2 diabetes, with a focus on their effects on glycemic control, lipid profiles, and overall metabolic health in adult patients. A comprehensive search of PubMed and Cochrane Library databases identified several studies utilizing various fasting protocols, including intermittent fasting and FMD. Data synthesis and bias assessment were conducted using established methodologies, including the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool. The review found that fasting interventions significantly improve glycemic control and reduce body weight, with some protocols notably lowering HbA1c levels (p<0.05), highlighting the strong potential of fasting in diabetes management. However, the results varied, suggesting that individual differences in metabolic responses and adherence levels influence outcomes. In conclusion, while fasting and FMD show promise for improving metabolic health and managing diabetes, more standardized research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms, optimize protocols, and confirm long-term benefits. Future research should prioritize larger sample sizes and extended follow-up periods to inform comprehensive clinical practice guidelines.
Keywords: diabetes; fasting diet; fasting-mimicking diet; systematic review; type 2 diabetes.
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