Why Intermittent Fasting Probably Won’t Lead to Weight Loss

Going Nowhere Fast: Intermittent fasting has been the trendy diet du jour for a while now. It promises that you can eat whatever and however much you want (within reason) and still lose weight, as long as you do it within a specific window. But if you’ve been considering this method to drop a few pounds, new research suggests you might want to reconsider. A study published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that it offers no real advantage for weight loss compared to traditional dieting or even doing nothing at all.

The Study: Researchers analyzed 22 clinical trials involving nearly 2,000 overweight or obese people across multiple countries. They compared various intermittent fasting approaches against standard calorie restriction and no intervention. The result was that intermittent fasting produced no clinically meaningful difference in weight loss compared to either approach. 

The Takeaway: Intermittent fasting isn’t the miracle method many hoped it would be. The timing of your meals matters far less than what you eat and how much.

Keep in Mind: Weight loss is still achievable through other means. Instead, experts suggest focusing on whole foods with plenty of protein while cutting yourself off a few hours before bed.