While intermittent fasting has gained popularity as a weight loss strategy among many individuals, its suitability for those with kidney disease remains a topic of concern. Our nutrition specialist recommends caution when considering this approach, emphasizing the importance of tailored dietary habits for kidney health.

Is It True That Fasting is Not Recommended for Kidney Issues?

Intermittent fasting (IF) has gained popularity as a dietary approach for weight loss and enhancing overall health. There are various methods to practice intermittent fasting, with some of the most common ones being:

• The 16/8 method: This technique involves limiting your eating window to 8 hours while fasting for the remaining 16 hours of the day.
• Eat-stop-eat: This method consists of fasting for a full 24 hours on two non-consecutive days each week.
• The 5:2 diet: In this approach, you restrict your intake to around 500 to 600 calories on two non-consecutive days, while enjoying a regular diet for the other five days.

For most healthy individuals, IF is generally recognized as safe and beneficial.

However, if you are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider prior to embarking on any fasting regimen. They can offer tailored guidance regarding the suitability of IF for your unique situation, taking into account the specific stage and severity of your CKD.

What Effects Can Fasting Have on Kidney Disease?

Research regarding intermittent fasting (IF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is quite limited. The most pertinent studies primarily focus on individuals with kidney conditions who observe fasting during Ramadan (Ramzan).

A notable study conducted in 2017 examined a group of 65 adults suffering from stage 3 or higher CKD and revealed that fasting associated with Ramadan was correlated with a decline in kidney function. Conversely, other research has suggested that fasting during Ramadan for those with CKD does not necessarily lead to a deterioration in kidney health. For instance, a 2018 investigation involving 31 participants with CKD stages 2 to 4 indicated that fasting during Ramadan did not negatively affect kidney function. Additionally, a 2020 study involving mouse models suggested that fasting might decelerate the progression of polycystic kidney disease (PKD). However, the human evidence supporting this claim remains scarce.

The safety of intermittent fasting for individuals with CKD is still uncertain, as there could be a risk of negative health effects, including a decline in kidney function. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before embarking on an intermittent fasting regimen to determine its safety for your specific condition. If you're looking for more resources related to CKD, consider subscribing to our newsletter or exploring our information hub!