The Risks of Fasting With Liver Disease

During periods of fasting, the liver is responsible for helping to provide adequate fuel for the brain and body. Think of the organ as a giant chemical factory that converts any food you ingest to the operating fuel of the body - glucose. In any form of liver disease, there is a chance that normal chemical manufacture of glucose is disrupted.

For this reason it is of vital importance in protecting individuals from abnormal responses to the fasting process. The liver must be functioning properly to protect against adverse events like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) that may result in death. Any individual with impaired liver function must discuss their interest in fasting with their health care provider. Fasting may also alter the absorption and metabolism of certain medications used to treat liver disease.