New Study Reveals Intermittent Fasting Alone Doesn’t Boost Metabolism
Intermittent fasting has become one of the biggest diet trends in recent years. However, new research suggests it may not work as many people think. Scientists in Germany found that fasting without reducing calories doesn’t actually improve metabolism or heart health.
What the Study Found
Researchers from the German Institute of Human Nutrition and Charité University tested how time-restricted eating affects metabolism. They asked 31 overweight or obese people to follow two eating schedules. One group ate between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. (early TRE), while the other ate between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. (late TRE).Both groups consumed the same calories and nutrients. After two weeks, researchers saw no major improvements in insulin sensitivity, blood sugar, or fat levels. However, they did find that eating times changed the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm.
The Body’s Internal Clock
Our bodies follow a natural day-night rhythm called the circadian clock. It controls key functions such as sleep, metabolism, and hormone levels. The study revealed that eating later shifted this rhythm by about 40 minutes. Participants who ate later also went to bed and woke up later.According to lead researcher Prof. Olga Ramich, the timing of meals acts like a “signal” for our biological clock,just like sunlight does.
Calories Still Matter MostThe study’s main takeaway is clear: timing meals alone won’t boost metabolism. Real benefits likely come from eating fewer calories, not just changing meal hours.
Therefore, anyone looking to lose weight or improve metabolic health should focus on both calorie balance and meal timing. Future research may explore how personal factors, such as genetics or sleep patterns, influence fasting results.
