Investigating the potential advantages of confining eating within specific time frames, with regards to calorie reduction.
A Fresh Take on Time-Restricted Eating Versus Calorie Restriction for Weight Loss
In the battle of the bulge, time-restricted eating (TRE) and calorie restriction (CR) are two popular weight loss strategies under the spotlight. A recent study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, delved into their effectiveness for weight loss in individuals with obesity.
Time-restricted eating, a form of daily intermittent fasting, requires individuals to consume all their food within a specific time frame. For example, popular methods include the 16:8 and 20:4 fasting regimens. The belief is that the limited eating window results in reduced calorie intake. As the study authors explain, it's an attractive option due to its simplicity, which may improve adherence.
On the other hand, calorie restriction involves counting calories with an aim to create a daily deficit. By limiting calorie intake, individuals can achieve a gradual weight loss of approximately 1 pound per week. Both methods can lead to weight loss; however, their efficacy in producing long-term results has been a topic of debate.
The Research: Cutting to the Chase
In the study, 139 participants with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 28 and 45 were divided into two groups and instructed to eat a set number of calories per day. The time-restricted eating group was confined to consume all their food within an 8-hour window, while the calorie-restriction group ate whenever they preferred. After 12 months, both groups had lost weight, but the difference was not statistically significant.
The researchers also assessed blood pressure, fasting glucose, and lipid levels and found similar improvements in both groups.
Expert Opinions
Two registered dietitians spoke with Medical News Today about the study's findings. Maryann Walsh, owner of Walsh Nutrition Consulting, appreciated the flexibility TRE offers, saying, "Some may prefer how [time-restricted eating] suits their lifestyle." Piercing through the noise of conflicting advice in the realm of nutrition, Kristen Kirkpatrick, a dietitian from Cleveland Clinic, emphasized the importance of long-term sustainability, stating, "The best diet out there is one that someone can stay on in the long term."
The Bottom Line: To TRE or Not to TRE
While the study does not confirm TRE as a more effective method than CR, it remains an attractive option due to its simplicity, time efficiency, and potential for lasting behavioral changes. As researchers continue to unravel the intricacies of weight loss, it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider before embarking on any new dietary regimen.
- The study comparing Time-Restricted Eating (TRE) and Calorie Restriction (CR) found that both types of diets led to weight loss, but the difference was not statistically significant over a period of 12 months.
- Researchers in the study also assessed blood pressure, fasting glucose, and lipid levels and found similar improvements in both the Time-Restricted Eating and Calorie-Restricted groups.
- Registered dietitians Maryann Walsh and Kristen Kirkpatrick, when interviewed by Medical News Today, appreciated the flexibility of TRE and emphasized its potential for long-term sustainability.
- The simplicity, time efficiency, and potential for lasting behavioral changes make Time-Restricted Eating an attractive option, despite the study not confirming it as a more effective method than Calorie Restriction.
- It's essential to consult your healthcare provider before embarking on any new dietary regimen, such as TRE, as part of a comprehensive health-and-wellness plan that may also involve fitness-and-exercise and other nutrition considerations for weight-management.
