While intermittent fasting can be an effective method for weight loss and improved health for many, it doesn't yield the same results for everyone.
Scientists claim they have discovered a method to increase its impact – by focusing on the foods we consume, rather than our meal times.
Specifically, a group of US researchers found that a particular diet is only effective for weight loss and stabilizing blood sugar levels when people adhere to it while consuming fewer calories than they need.
In other words, the total number of calories you consume matters more than when you consume them.
People who weighed more and followed a 10-hour eating schedule from 8 am to 6 pm, consuming most of their daily calories during these hours, lost approximately 2.3kg (5.1lbs) over the course of 12 weeks on average.
For comparison, those who participated in the study and ate between 8am and midnight, consuming the majority of their calories in the evening, lost 2.6 kilograms in weight, which is equivalent to approximately five and a half pounds.
Both sets of participants followed a diet, as recommended by experts, that included a balanced mix of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and avoided junk foods with minimal saturated fats.
It's likely a result of their shorter fasting duration and lower calorie intake.'
Some Hollywood celebrities are among those who have begun adopting the fasting trend since it rose to fame in the early 2010s.
However, despite a multitude of research studies indicating its positive outcomes, specialists continue to disagree about its efficacy and the possible long-term health consequences.
Some argue that people who fast tend to consume a considerable amount of food all at once, which ironically doesn't help reduce their calorie intake, a well-known way to counteract weight gain.
They even
Research data collected from 41 individuals, averaging 59 years of age and having an average body mass index of 36.
At the start of the investigation, the researchers evaluated participants' background and physical activity level to gauge their basic caloric needs.
The participants were given pre-prepared meals that contained identical amounts of both large nutrients and small nutrients.
They consumed the same amount of calories daily throughout the study period.
During the eating periods, the trial didn't restrict beverages as long as they were calorie-free and caffeine-free.
Participants were also allowed one cup of coffee, one cup of diet soda, and one alcoholic beverage per day. Outside of the designated time periods, only water was allowed.
The researchers found no notable variations in fasting glucose, waist circumference, blood pressure, or lipid levels after twelve weeks.
Researchers stated: 'Time-restricted eating did not reduce weight or improve glucose regulation when compared to a standard eating regimen.'
It appears that the impact of intermittent fasting on weight loss observed in previous research may be attributed to a decrease in overall caloric consumption.
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