A new study suggests that reducing calorie intake three days a week may be more effective for weight loss than traditional daily dieting. Researchers found that participants who followed this approach lost nearly 17 pounds over the course of a year, compared to those who cut their daily calories by one-third.
The “sweet spot” strategy involves restricting calories on non-consecutive days and allowing free rein on the remaining days. This approach may be easier to stick to than daily calorie restriction, say researchers Victoria Catenacci and Danielle Ostendorf.
Ostendorf notes that past studies have often failed due to inadequate fasting periods or excessive restrictions. However, three-day intermittent fasting seems to strike a balance between restricting calories and allowing flexibility.
The study’s participants also received comprehensive lifestyle support, including exercise goals, group meetings with dieticians, and personalized guidance. This support significantly improved adherence rates and overall success of the plan.
While the study had only healthy adults and excluded individuals with serious conditions like diabetes, researchers emphasize the importance of consulting a doctor and registered dietician before starting any new diet.
Expert opinions suggest that individualized approaches are key to long-term weight loss success. Dr. Amy Rothberg recommends balancing healthy foods while exploring alternatives to calorie tracking. Dr. Victoria Catenacci stresses the need for self-sustainability, advocating for strategies tailored to each person’s needs and preferences.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/intermittent-fasting-hit-miss-research-suggests-sweet-spot/story?id=120343713