A new study suggests that trendy intermittent fasting may be more effective for weight loss than a calorie-controlled diet. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Halle Berry have praised the 4:3 intermittent fasting plan, where individuals restrict calories for three days a week and eat normally for the other four days.
Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine found that participants on the 4:3 intermittent fasting plan had greater weight loss over 12 months compared to those on a daily calorie restriction diet. Participants in the fasting group achieved a 7.6% reduction in body weight, while the calorie restriction group saw a 5% reduction. Additionally, more participants in the fasting group achieved a 5% weight loss at 12 months.
The study involved 165 overweight adults who were randomly assigned to either the 4:3 intermittent fasting plan or calorie restriction. Participants in the fasting group followed an 80% energy restriction for three non-consecutive days per week, while those in the calorie restriction group had a daily calorie goal. Both groups were given behavioral support, exercise recommendations, and dietary guidelines.
The researchers concluded that intermittent fasting may be a viable and effective weight loss approach due to its ease of adherence and positive impact on cardiometabolic outcomes. The findings were published in the Annals of Internal Medicine and suggest that intermittent fasting should be considered as a legitimate dietary weight loss strategy.
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