A new study has found that intermittent fasting, specifically fasting three days a week, can result in 50% more weight loss than traditional calorie-cutting diets. This discovery could revolutionize weight loss strategies, as scientists are continuously exploring more effective methods to combat the growing obesity crisis.
The Study and Findings
The study, which analyzed 165 overweight or obese individuals, compared two diet strategies:
Intermittent Fasting (4:3 Approach): Participants fasted three days a week, reducing their calorie intake by 80% on fasting days, while maintaining healthy food choices on non-fasting days.
Reduced-Calorie Diet: Participants restricted their calorie intake daily, aiming for a 34.3% energy deficit.
The 4:3 fasting group lost 7.6% of their body mass over one year, compared to 5% in the calorie-restricted group. Fasters lost an average of 7.7 kg (1st 2lb), while the calorie-restricted group lost about 4.5 kg (10lb).
Why Intermittent Fasting Might Be More Effective
According to Victoria Catenacci, the study’s co-lead author, fasting three days a week strikes a balance between effectiveness and adherence. Too much fasting may be too rigid, while too little may not create enough of a calorie deficit.
The research suggests that structured fasting may be a more sustainable and efficient approach for long-term weight loss compared to constantly restricting calories.
The Takeaway
Intermittent fasting could be a game-changer for those struggling with weight loss. This study provides promising evidence that fasting three days a week may lead to better results than traditional calorie restriction, offering a potentially easier and more effective diet option.
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