Obesity is a major global health problem. According to the World Health Organization, 2.5 billion adults were overweight in 2022.
Of these, 890 million were living with obesity. This has increased interest in new ways to lose weight.
Intermittent fasting has gained popularity through social media and lifestyle trends. In simple terms, the method involves alternating between periods of eating and fasting.
What does the research show?
A new review from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews compiled results from 22 clinical trials involving 1,995 adults.
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Participants came from Europe, North America, China, and Australia, among other regions.
The trials examined different forms of fasting, such as fasting every other day or eating only during specific time windows. Most studies lasted up to one year.
According to the researchers, there was no clear difference in weight loss between those who practiced fasting and those who received standard dietary counseling or no treatment.
Need for more evidence
Lead author Luis Garegnani concludes that intermittent fasting does not appear to result in greater weight loss among people who are overweight or living with obesity.
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The researchers also point out that several studies had small sample sizes and that side effects were not always recorded consistently. In addition, most participants were from high-income countries.
Senior author Eva Madrid therefore emphasizes that it is difficult to make a general recommendation. Weight loss advice should be tailored to the individual’s circumstances.
Sources: Medical Express, Verdenssundhedsorganisationen, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
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