Does Intermittent Fasting Help Improve Kidney Health (Albumin Level)?

Intermittent fasting is undoubtedly one of the most popular diet trends. It is an eating pattern that limits food intake in a set amount of time and remains to fast outside the eating window. In 2021, researchers investigated how intermittent fasting may affect kidney problems caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels. The study aimed to assess whether intermittent fasting could lower urinary albumin levels and whether the reduction would significantly affect overall wellness.

In a healthy state, protein should mainly stay in the blood. Only a tiny amount of protein will appear in the urine. If an abnormally high amount of protein is detected in the urine, it may indicate kidney problems. A healthy individual should excrete less than 30mg of albumin per day. Kidney problems are suspected if 30 – 300mg of albumin are found in the urine.

The study showed a drop in the participants' urinary albumin level, blood sugar level, and blood pressure. Improvement in insulin resistance was also observed. If future studies conclude similar results, it seems that intermittent fasting will bring potential benefits to those suffering from prolonged high blood sugar levels and those who developed kidney problems because of that.

However, there are a few points to note. Participants in that study had received intensive blood sugar management. Therefore, intermittent fasting should not be seen as an alternative treatment but could be considered to complement existing treatment. In addition, no long-lasting results on urinary albumin levels were observed. Once the individual resumed to routine diet, no other positive effects were indicated. This could imply that a person would need to continue intermittent fasting for more extended periods to get consistent results.