NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

How intermittent fasting affects blood sugar control in diabetes patients

Official title: Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Glycemic Control in Patients with Diabetes

Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-11044228 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how two types of intermittent fasting—eating less on some days and only eating during certain hours—can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar better and feel healthier.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kansas Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2022
Project endFebruary 28, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$178,065
NIH project number5P20GM144269-04
Project IDNIH-11044228 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have type 2 diabetes or those with other severe health conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of intermittent fasting (IF) on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. It compares two specific forms of intermittent fasting: intermittent energy restriction (IER) and time-restricted eating (TRE). The study aims to understand how these fasting methods can improve insulin action and reduce inflammation, which are crucial for better blood sugar management. Patients will be monitored for changes in their blood glucose levels and overall health during the fasting periods.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary strategies that significantly improve blood sugar control for patients with diabetes.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results for intermittent fasting in animal models, but this approach is still being tested in human patients with diabetes.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Kansas Medical Center
    Kansas City, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Steger, Felicia — University of Kansas Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Steger, Felicia

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.