Can intermittent fasting reduce colorectal cancer risk?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am interested in learning more about how intermittent fasting might influence the risk of colorectal cancer. Is there any evidence that intermittent fasting can help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer or that it plays a role in managing the condition? How does diet, particularly eating patterns like intermittent fasting, impact overall gut health and potentially affect cancer risk? Are there specific foods or dietary habits that should be prioritized or avoided to protect against colorectal cancer? Additionally, if someone is undergoing treatment for colorectal cancer, is intermittent fasting a safe or beneficial approach to consider, or should other dietary strategies be followed during treatment and recovery? Please help.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a form of intermittent fasting that offers a simplified approach to treating obesity in type 1 diabetes mellitus. TRE typically involves restricting eating to six to ten hours per day, with water and medications allowed outside the eating window. Intermittent fasting helps to control the release of glucose into the bloodstream, which can lead to reduced fasting blood sugar levels by limiting meal intake to specified times. In persons with type 2 diabetes, intermittent fasting has been proven to lower fasting glucose levels by 5.6 %.

Although clinical trial findings are still very limited, evidence suggests that individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus may safely undertake intermittent fasting with a limited risk of diabetic ketoacidosis or severe glycemic disturbances.

Here are our top tips for losing weight safely with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Take a look at your insulin settings.
Eat a balanced diet that considers your needs, preferences, and intolerances.
Reduce your portion sizes.
Choose protein-rich foods such as lean meats such as chicken, fish, or turkey, and eggs.
Low-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Avoid sugar, simple carbs, andprocessed foods.
Increase resistance training.
Avoid behaviors that put your health at risk.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.