Does sugar-free gum break a fast?

Does sugar-free gum break a fast? Is it a good idea to have one cheat day per week?
It’s time for this week’s Q&A about intermittent fasting and low carb with Dr. Jason Fung:
Does sugar-free gum break a fast?
I fast by skipping breakfast. I worry that gum is breaking my fast unintentionally. Everyone says something different!
Thanks,
Anne
Technically yes, sugar free gum would not be allowed on a fast. But the amount of sugar alcohol in a stick of gum is so small that it likely makes no difference. If you are doing well with gum, then continue. If you are not getting the results you think you should, then cut it out. But I wouldn’t worry a lot about gum, unless you are eating a lot of it.
Dr. Jason Fung
Cheat day while on LCHF and intermittent fasting
If I am on an LCHF and on alternate day fasting diet, is it better to have one cheat day a week, or not?
Thank you,
Tony
It’s not better to have a cheat day unless it allows you to follow a stricter diet otherwise. Some people do well, and others not. I don’t recommend a cheat day in general.
Dr. Jason Fung
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You may find this helpful.
Taking medications with food
For those who need to take prescription medications with food more than once per day, OMAD presents a significant hurdle. If this is the case for you, discuss with your healthcare provider if other options exist. If not, then OMAD is likely not safe for you.
https://www.dietdoctor.com/intermittent-fasting/omad#concerns
Please read this also.
https://www.dietdoctor.com/low-carb/with-diabetes-medications
Are their any thoughts on alternate day fasting for 36 hours during this COVID-19 outbreak?
Does your immune system drop during a long fast?
Our fasting guides should be helpful for you! https://www.dietdoctor.com/intermittent-fasting/guides
I am a type 2 Diabetic and have gone on low carb diet for about 3 months and stopped taking diabetes oral medicine. I have no problems with fasting. I am unable to bring my glucose level below 6. How can you help me? I need your advice.
Shahzad
Shahzad, check out this article about high fasting blood glucose for tips on how to deal with this. https://www.dietdoctor.com/low-carb/fasting-blood-glucose-higher
You could add salt to a vegetable broth to help with electrolytes.
I really recommend it. Thanks Dr Fung
Thank you so much for taking the time to tell us about your progress!