Alternate-day fasting elicits larger changes in fat mass than time-restricted eating in adults without obesity - A randomized clinical trial
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS
Intermittent fasting (IF) is a popular nutritional strategy for weight control and improved metabolic health, however it is unclear which type of intermittent fasting is most effective. This randomized trial directly compared short-term alternate-day fasting (ADF) and time-restricted eating (TRE) with controls in adults with overweight or a high normal weight. The aim was to compare the effects of ADF and TRE versus controls regarding whole-body fat mass loss, weight control and cardiometabolic health.
METHODS
In this 4-week, parallel-arm, randomized clinical trial (February 2021-May 2022), participants aged 18-40 years with a body mass index between 23 and 30 kg/m2 were assigned to ADF (alternating fasting and ad libitum eating days), to TRE (eating only between 12:00-20:00), or control (no change in eating times). The primary outcome was change in total fat volume (assessed by whole-body magnetic resonance imaging). Secondary outcomes were subcutaneous and visceral fat mass, body weight, resting metabolic rate, biochemical markers, energy intake, activity energy expenditure and health-related quality of life.
RESULTS
Seventy-six participants (mean [standard deviation (SD)] age, 29.6 [5.6] years; body mass index, 25.8 [2.2] kg/m2; 34 [44 %] female) were randomized to ADF (n = 26), TRE (n = 26), or control (n = 24). Seventy-five participants completed the trial (25 in ADF, 26 in TRE, 24 in control). ADF led to a greater reduction in total fat volume than…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 26 participants or records.
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