Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and periods of little or no food intake, rather than a specific diet defined by which foods to eat.
Common Approaches
Popular methods include time-restricted eating, such as eating only within an 8-hour window each day, and alternate patterns like eating normally on most days while significantly reducing calories on select days each week.
What Research Suggests
Some studies suggest intermittent fasting can help with weight management and certain metabolic markers for some people, largely because it often leads to reduced overall calorie intake. However, results vary between individuals, and researchers note it does not appear to offer dramatically better results than standard calorie restriction for most people.
Who Should Be Cautious
Intermittent fasting is not recommended for everyone. People with a history of eating disorders, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and people with certain medical conditions such as diabetes should consult a doctor before trying it.