How does intermittent fasting affect hormones — and what does EU research show?

Intermittent fasting can influence insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormones, and reproductive hormones. In this episode, we explain the current European research and how hormonal health is assessed before dietary changes.

In this episode, we cover:

• What intermittent fasting is (time-restricted eating or alternate-day fasting)

• Effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation

• Cortisol and stress hormone fluctuations

• Potential impact on thyroid function

• Menstrual cycle changes and reproductive hormones

• Differences between short-term and prolonged fasting

• Who should avoid fasting (pregnancy, eating disorders, uncontrolled diabetes)

• When blood testing may be recommended

• Situations where treatment adjustments may be declined without monitoring

Doctors assess BMI, HbA1c, thyroid function, menstrual history, medication use, cardiovascular risk, and metabolic profile before advising fasting. Hormonal effects vary between individuals. Persistent fatigue, menstrual disruption, dizziness, or hypoglycaemia require medical evaluation.

This episode reflects how nutrition and endocrine health are reviewed within structured medical assessment in European telemedicine at Mobi Doctor.

Read the full medical guide here:

https://www.mobidoctor.eu/blog/intermittent-fasting-hormones-eu-research-explained