A New Tool for Yom Kippur Fasting: MiniMed 780G
As Yom Kippur approaches each year, many people with Type 1 diabetes face a difficult question: can they fast without compromising their health? In the past, rabbis and physicians often advised against fasting due to potential health risks. Today, a breakthrough in diabetes technology is shifting that stance. The MiniMed 780G, a hybrid closed-loop insulin pump, combines continuous glucose monitoring with automatic insulin delivery to help maintain stable glucose levels during fasting, holidays, and even on the Sabbath.
How the MiniMed 780G Works
The MiniMed 780G integrates a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) with a smart insulin pump in a closed-loop system. The CGM continuously tracks glucose levels and the pump adjusts insulin delivery automatically, reducing the need for manual injections. For those observing Yom Kippur, this means fewer dose changes and more consistent glucose control, which can translate to a safer and more comfortable fast. The system operates in a way that supports both daytime fasting and longer stretches without regular meals, helping to prevent sharp spikes and dangerous lows.
Why It Matters for Fasting and Daily Life
Beyond the immediate medical benefits, the MiniMed 780G represents a meaningful shift in quality of life for people with Type 1 diabetes. By providing continuous, automated insulin regulation, it reduces the daily burden of constant monitoring and manual injections. This can lead to steadier glucose levels, reduced risk of hypo- or hyperglycemia, and greater peace of mind during sacred observances that involve fasting. Thousands of users in Orthodox and other communities have already adopted this approach to better align health needs with religious practice, without giving up essential medical safety.
Halachic and Medical Guidance
While technology offers powerful support, official guidance emphasizes the importance of individualized decisions. Users should consult with their rabbi or halachic authority for personal guidance on fasting during Yom Kippur, and with their medical team for tailored clinical instructions. There are scenarios in which stopping the fast may be necessary to avoid health risk, underscoring that technology complements—not replaces—professional medical and religious counsel. A Halachic-Medical guide to fasting on Yom Kippur has been prepared by Rabbi Israel Meir Malka and Rav Aharon Weiss to help families navigate these decisions with care.
Practical Steps for Patients Considering the Fast
If you are considering fasting on Yom Kippur with the MiniMed 780G, begin with a careful plan. Schedule a consultation with your endocrinologist or diabetes educator to review your current therapy, CGM data, and any comorbid conditions. Bring questions about fasting timing, hydration, and how the closed-loop system will behave during extended periods without meals. Then speak with a rabbi or halachic authority to determine the appropriate halachic approach for your situation. Keep a line of communication open with your medical team and caregiver in case circumstances change during the fast.
For more information about the device and its use during Yom Kippur, you can contact the support team at 09-951-8370. A service representative will provide details and guidance tailored to your needs.
Important note
Technology enables healthier fasting for many, but it does not replace medical or religious counsel. Always follow personalized medical advice and religious guidance to ensure a safe and meaningful observance.
