GLUCOSE SPIKE DURING FASTING: PHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS, RISK FACTORS, AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS FOR METABOLIC DISEASE PREVENTION (LITERATURE REVIEW)

Abstrak

Fasting is a physiological condition in which the body does not receive energy intake from food for a defined period, thereby relying on endogenous energy reserves to maintain metabolic homeostasis. During fasting, multiple metabolic adaptations occur, including hormonal regulation involving insulin and glucagon, as well as alterations in hepatic and peripheral tissue metabolism. Although fasting is widely associated with metabolic health benefits, some individuals experience a phenomenon known as a glucose spike, characterized by a rapid increase in blood glucose levels following food intake, particularly after consuming high glycemic index foods. Recurrent glucose spikes are associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to analyze the physiological mechanisms underlying glucose spikes during fasting, identify key risk factors, and evaluate policy implications for metabolic disease prevention. A literature review with a descriptive approach was conducted using scientific articles published within the last three years, sourced from Google Scholar, PubMed, and accredited national journals. The findings indicate that glucose spikes are influenced by multiple factors, including altered insulin sensitivity, high glycemic index food consumption, obesity, pancreatic dysfunction, and sedentary behavior. Evidence suggests that balanced dietary patterns, low glycemic index foods, regular physical activity, and intermittent fasting contribute to improved glucose stability. These findings underscore that controlling glucose spikes requires both behavioral modification and comprehensive health policies, including nutrition education, diabetes management during fasting, and targeted lifestyle interventions for high-risk populations.