Intermittent fasting does not improve metabolism: new research by German scientists.

According to ТСН: A new study by German scientists has found that popular methods of intermittent fasting may not meet expectations regarding metabolic benefits. While participants lost weight, no significant improvements in key health indicators were recorded.

A team from the German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke studied the effects of different eating patterns on the body. For two weeks, 31 overweight or obese women adhered to two time-restricted eating (TRE) schedules: from 8:00 to 16:00 and from 13:00 to 21:00. Meanwhile, their diet remained isocaloric - participants consumed the same amount of calories as usual.

Although the women lost some weight, the expected changes in glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels were not observed. Researchers believe that the positive results of previous studies may have been related not to a reduction in the eating window, but to a lower calorie intake.

The article notes that no improvements in metabolic markers were recorded after two weeks of TRE in this nearly isocaloric experiment. However, a shift in circadian rhythms was observed, suggesting that the eating regime can influence sleep and the body’s daily cycles.

Biologist and dietitian Olga Ramich emphasizes: those who dream of losing weight or improving metabolism should pay attention not only to the clock but also to the overall energy balance.

The question remains open: can time-restricted eating provide an additional effect when adhering to a low-calorie diet? Scientists plan to continue research to determine if the optimal time for eating differs among individuals and how TRE works in combination with reduced calorie intake.

This research highlights the importance of an objective attitude towards popular diets and eating methods. Over time, new data may emerge that will help better understand how different dietary approaches work and which factors may influence our health.