A new study has found that alternate-day fasting could be more effective for weight loss than traditional dieting or other forms of intermittent fasting. This method involves fasting for a full day every other day.
Researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and other global institutions studied over 6,500 adults in 99 clinical trials. Most of the participants were obese and had health issues.
The study found that while all fasting methods helped with some weight loss, alternate-day fasting led to slightly better results — about 2.8 pounds more weight loss than calorie-restricted diets.
The method also helped improve waist size, cholesterol, and inflammation levels, which are linked to heart and metabolic health.
However, researchers said the weight loss was still below the level considered a major medical improvement, and longer studies are needed.
Experts also warned that intermittent fasting isn’t suitable for everyone. They advise people to talk to a doctor before making big changes to their diet, especially if they have health conditions.
