by A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) has found that time-restricted eating, also known as intermittent fasting, is a more effective method for weight loss and blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes compared to calorie-controlled eating.
Type 2 diabetes, which is associated with genetic and lifestyle risk factors such as obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity, is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide. As a result, extensive research has been conducted to find effective treatment strategies for the condition.
The study, which spanned six months and involved 75 participants, aimed to investigate the impact of time-restricted eating on weight loss and blood sugar control among individuals with type 2 diabetes. The participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: time-restricted eating without calorie counting (eating only from noon to 8 p.m.), calorie-restricted diet (25% daily energy reduction), or a control group.
The results of the study indicated that participants who followed a time-restricted eating pattern experienced greater weight loss over the six-month period compared to those in the calorie-restricted diet group. Additionally, both treatment groups demonstrated similar improvements in long-term blood sugar control, as measured by hemoglobin A1c levels—a marker of average blood sugar levels over the preceding two to three months.
According to Krista Varady, one of the co-authors of the study, time-restricted eating can serve as an effective alternative to traditional dieting for individuals who struggle with or are unable to adhere to conventional diets. She suggests that counting time may be simpler and more manageable for many individuals compared to calorie counting.
The researchers also discovered that participants in the time-restricted eating group reported a higher level of compliance with the dietary regime compared to those following a calorie-restricted diet. This observation may be attributed to the fact that individuals with diabetes are often advised by healthcare professionals to reduce calorie intake as an initial treatment modality. Hence, those who have attempted and experienced difficulties with calorie-restricted diets might find time-restricted eating more feasible and sustainable. In the time-restricted eating group, participants were allowed to eat any food they desired, but only within an eight-hour window.
Importantly, the study included a diverse range of participants, including individuals from Hispanic and Black communities. Given the higher prevalence of diabetes among these groups, documenting the success of time-restricted eating in these populations proves valuable.
The researchers plan to conduct larger-scale studies to further investigate the efficacy of time-restricted eating in individuals with type 2 diabetes. However, they emphasize that individuals with diabetes should consult with their healthcare providers before initiating a time-restricted eating regimen.
This study provides promising evidence that time-restricted eating offers an effective and accessible approach to weight loss and blood sugar control for individuals with type 2 diabetes. It presents an alternative to conventional calorie-controlled diets that may be more manageable and sustainable for long-term adherence.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
