Tips For Fasting Safely

Stop Fasting if Feeling Sick

In the short term, intermittent fasting may sometimes trigger symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. Less commonly, patients have experienced low blood pressure and heart rhythm abnormalities as a result of fasting. If patients notice any of these, they should discontinue the fast immediately and see their doctor for an evaluation. Patients should take care when getting out of bed and standing up from a seated position to minimize dizziness and lightheadedness. The patient may want to sit on their bed with their feet on the floor for a few minutes before slowly attempting to stand up.

Monitoring blood pressure and pulse readings regularly during a fast can help individuals understand how their heart is affected by their particular fasting regimen. They can take these measurements with an automatic blood pressure monitor at home. If the patient experiences heart palpitations or a sensation of fluttering in the chest during or after a fast, they should obtain urgent medical attention. Patients who have a history of heart rhythm abnormalities or low blood pressure are generally advised not to fast.

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Consider Taking Supplements

Patients may wish to consider taking supplements during intermittent fasting to ensure they still receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals for each day of the week. This is especially important for individuals taking medications and those with chronic health conditions, including type 2 diabetes. Supplements can be taken with water to avoid breaking the fast. Choosing supplements in tablet form instead of gummy formulations will allow individuals to avoid consuming sugar and calories from the supplements.

Patients who already take supplements should continue to take all of their usual supplements on fasting days. Individuals who do not currently take supplements may want to consider taking a multivitamin on their fasting days. Other supplements that may be beneficial on fasting days include vitamin B12, iron, calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin D. Patients should check with their doctor about the safest supplements for their needs.

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