Time-restricted eating (TRE) has been touted as a potential strategy for weight loss, but a recent study suggests that the key factor might actually be the decrease in overall food intake rather than the specific time frames of fasting. The study, conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, compared the effects of TRE with a usual eating pattern (UEP) on a group of 41 adult participants with obesity and either prediabetes or diet-controlled diabetes.
Calories Matter Most
The results of the study revealed that both the TRE group and the UEP group experienced significant weight loss, with the TRE group losing an average of 2.3 kilograms (5.1 pounds) and the UEP group losing 2.6 kilograms (5.7 pounds). Interestingly, the weight loss was similar regardless of the time frame in which the participants consumed their calories. This suggests that the real key to weight loss is the reduction in caloric intake rather than the specific timing of meals.
Participants in the TRE group were restricted to eating only between the hours of 8 am and 6 pm, while those in the UEP group could eat between 8 am and midnight. Despite the difference in eating windows, both groups were given isocaloric (calorie-matched) diets. The results showed that there was no significant difference in weight loss or other markers such as glucose levels, waist circumference, blood pressure, and lipid levels between the two groups.
The researchers concluded that when calorie intake is matched across groups and calories are held constant, TRE, as defined in the study, does not offer any additional benefits in terms of weight loss. While the study had a relatively small sample size and the participants were only monitored for 12 weeks, the findings suggest that the most crucial factor in weight loss is a reduction in daily calories.
Although time-restricted eating may not directly contribute to weight loss on its own, it can still be a useful tool for managing caloric intake. Monitoring the times at which we eat may be easier for some individuals compared to counting calories or planning specific meals. This simple approach could be recommended by healthcare professionals to aid individuals who are struggling with weight management.
While time-restricted eating has been hyped as a potential weight loss strategy, the latest study indicates that the real secret to shedding pounds lies in reducing overall caloric intake. Whether you choose to follow a specific eating window or stick to a regular eating pattern, the key to success seems to be watching your daily calorie consumption.
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