List of 14 People Who Should Not Intermittent Fast

For safety, some people shouldn’t intermittent fast. If any of these conditions apply to you, do NOT undertake fasting without permission from your medical provider and possibly supervision by your medical provider:

People Who Should Not Intermittent Fast

1. If you are underweight and your BMI (body mass index) is under 18.5.
2. If you are extremely overweight or obese.
3. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding – because your baby needs all the nutrients it can get and because toxins can shed into your breastmilk.
4. If you are under 18 because you need the nutrients for growing.
5. If you have a history of eating disorders.
6. If you are extremely debilitated or malnourished, such as patients with cancer, AIDS, severe anemia, or any severe wasting conditions.
7. If you are having surgery or have just had surgery, since it may interfere with your ability to heal.
8. If you suffer from cardiac arrhythmia or congestive heart failure.
9. Do not fast if you are struggling with mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, or anxiety.
10. Do not fast if you suffer from severe liver or kidney disease.
11. Do not fast if you are a type 1 diabetic.
12. Do not fast if you are taking medications including, but not limited to anti-inflammatory medications, aspirin, antidepressants, narcotics, chemotherapy, or diuretics. (Medications such as thyroid hormones and hormone replacement therapy are safe to take during a fast. Always consult your physician before fasting if you are taking any medication.)
13. If you are taking prednisone you will need to wean off this medication slowly under a doctor’s supervision.
14. If you have high uric acid or suffer from gout. Fasting can create a nutrient deficiency that may lead to fatigue, constipation, dizziness, and a hike in your uric acid levels

Why not Intermittent Fasting for People with These Conditions?

The biggest reason not to start intermittent fasting is that all these conditions require you to be under medical care.  You and your medical provider understand what is going on in your body.  Your medical provider will understand how fasting may impact any medications you are taking or if fasting would impact your condition.

It is important to talk to a medical provider so you intermittent fast in a way that is beneficial to your body.  For some conditions, it may not be beneficial to do any long term fasting or put time limits on when you eat.

Your medical provider can help you put boundaries around your fasting schedule so you don’t impact your health in a negative way.

What Should You Do?

You may still be able to intermittent fast with some of the conditions listed.

The most important thing to do is talk to your medical provider so you can determine together the best next step for you.