From the Guidelines
Fasting during rehabilitation for disorders should be approached with caution and medical supervision, and I generally do not recommend it unless specifically prescribed by their healthcare provider. The effects of fasting on rehabilitation disorders can be complex, and the current evidence does not strongly support its use as a therapeutic approach. According to a recent study 1, intermittent fasting, also known as time-restricted eating, may have potential benefits, but its effects on histologic NAFLD/NASH end points have not been adequately studied.
Key Considerations
- Proper nutrition is crucial for recovery, as the body needs adequate protein, calories, and micronutrients to repair tissues, support neurological function, and maintain energy levels during rehabilitation exercises.
- Patients taking medications during rehabilitation should be particularly careful, as many medications require food for proper absorption or to prevent gastrointestinal side effects.
- Fasting can affect blood glucose levels, which may interfere with cognitive function and physical performance during therapy sessions.
Modified Fasting Approaches
If fasting is being considered, it should be implemented as a modified approach, such as time-restricted eating (eating within an 8-10 hour window), rather than extended fasting periods. This approach may help minimize potential negative effects on rehabilitation outcomes. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of fasting on rehabilitation disorders, and patients should discuss their specific rehabilitation needs, medication schedule, and nutritional requirements with their healthcare team to develop a safe approach that supports rather than hinders their recovery process.
Evidence-Based Recommendations
The most recent and highest quality study on this topic 1 suggests that individualized approaches to lifestyle modification, including diet and exercise, are necessary to achieve weight loss and improve outcomes in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. While this study does not directly address rehabilitation disorders, its findings highlight the importance of careful consideration and individualized approaches when implementing fasting or other lifestyle modifications. Therefore, I recommend that patients undergo a thorough evaluation by their healthcare team before starting any fasting regimen, and that they prioritize proper nutrition and medical supervision to support their rehabilitation goals.
From the Research
Effects of Fasting on Rehabilitation Disorders
There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies do not discuss the effects of fasting on rehabilitation disorders.
Alternative Rehabilitation Strategies
However, the following nutritional strategies may be beneficial for rehabilitation:
- Balanced energy intake 2
- High-protein and carbohydrate-rich diet 2
- Supportive supervision to avoid low energy availability 2
- Supplementation with collagen, creatine monohydrate, omega-3 (fish oils), and vitamin D may be beneficial, but requires further research 2
- Multimodal interventions including exercise rehabilitation can be an efficacious therapeutic option to reduce disabilities in older adults with chronic musculoskeletal disorders 3
Key Considerations
Some key considerations for rehabilitation nutrition include:
- Identifying individual caloric requirements to ensure energy needs are met 4
- Higher protein intake, with evenly distributed consumption throughout the day, to minimize loss of muscle and strength during immobilization 4
- Dietary-supplement strategies may be useful when navigating challenges of appropriate caloric intake and timing, and reduced appetite 4