Intermittent fasting, often referred to as time-restricted eating, has shown promise in helping individuals with Type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels and lose weight, according to a study conducted at the University of Illinois, Chicago.
The study involved 75 participants who were divided into three groups: those practicing time-restricted eating, those reducing calorie intake, and a control group. Here are the key findings:
TIME-RESTRICTED EATING VS. CALORIE REDUCTION
Participants in the time-restricted eating group (eating within an eight-hour window) lost more weight over six months than those in the calorie-reduction group.
Both groups experienced similar reductions in long-term blood sugar levels, as measured by hemoglobin A1C.
EASIER ADHERENCE
Participants in the time-restricted eating group found it easier to adhere to the regime compared to the calorie-reduction group.
This may be because calorie reduction is often the initial recommendation for individuals with diabetes, and many participants had previously attempted and struggled with traditional calorie-based diets.
SAFETY AND DIVERSITY
The study did not report any serious adverse events.
Over half of the participants were Black, and 40% were Hispanic, making this study particularly useful for documenting the success of time-restricted eating in populations with a higher prevalence of diabetes.
While the study provides promising results, it is relatively small, and larger studies are needed to confirm its findings. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes are advised to consult their healthcare providers before starting any dietary regimen, including time-restricted eating. The rise of Type 2 diabetes makes it crucial to explore alternative approaches for weight and blood sugar control, and time-restricted eating could be a valuable option.
