Key Takeaway
A 16:8 eating pattern did not produce greater weight loss than eating without time restrictions, though lean mass loss was a concern.
Summary
This randomized controlled trial compared 16:8 time-restricted eating (eating only noon-8pm) to unrestricted eating times in overweight adults. After 12 weeks, the TRE group lost more weight (-1.7 kg vs -0.8 kg), but the difference was not statistically significant.
Concerningly, the TRE group lost more lean mass (muscle) than the control group, suggesting that protein timing and distribution may matter. The study highlights that TRE is not a magic bullet for weight loss.
This important study shows the need for realistic expectations - TRE may improve metabolic health without necessarily producing dramatic weight loss.
Methods
- Randomized controlled trial
- 116 overweight/obese adults
- TRE group: eat only noon-8pm
- Control: eat at normal times
- 12-week intervention
Key Results
- TRE weight loss: -1.7 kg
- Control weight loss: -0.8 kg
- Difference not statistically significant
- TRE lost more lean mass
- No difference in metabolic markers
Limitations
- Modest compliance in TRE group
- No control over what was eaten
- Lean mass loss concerning
- Short duration