The role of intermittent fasting and ketogenic diet in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

OBJECTIVES

To review the current evidence on intermittent fasting (IF) and ketogenic diet (KD) as dietary interventions for the management of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), including their mechanisms of action, clinical benefits, and potential when used in combination.

METHODS

A narrative review of recent scientific literature examining the physiological mechanisms, clinical outcomes, and practical implementation of IF and KD in patients with MetS and T2D. The focus is on studies evaluating glycemic control, body weight, lipid profiles, and inflammation, as well as the proposed shared biochemical pathways involving AMPK activation and mTOR inhibition.

RESULTS

Both IF and KD independently show clinically significant benefits in improving metabolic parameters in MetS and T2D, including reductions in HbA1c, fasting glucose, body weight, and triglycerides. Mechanistically, both approaches enhance insulin sensitivity, promote autophagy, reduce inflammation, and activate energy-regulating pathways (AMPK) while inhibiting mTOR. Emerging evidence suggests that combining IF and KD may offer synergistic metabolic effects, although data on long-term safety, adherence, and patient-specific suitability remain limited.

CONCLUSIONS

IF and KD represent promising, non-pharmacologic strategies for improving metabolic health in patients with MetS and T2D.