The fasting strategy that scientists suggest rivals the most effective methods

Health & Fitness
23 Jun 2025 • 11:56 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A new study indicates alternate-day fasting is more effective at boosting metabolism compared to both calorie restriction and intermittent fasting.
  • An analysis of 99 clinical trials found alternate-day fasting was the only dietary strategy to provide a modest benefit in reducing body weight compared to continuous calorie restriction.
  • This form of fasting was also associated with lower levels of total and LDL, or “bad” cholesterol when compared to time-restricted eating.
  • Researchers noted that alternate-day fasting did not meet the clinically significant threshold of at least 2kg of weight loss for individuals with obesity.
  • The study concluded that longer-duration trials are needed to further substantiate these findings and understand the long-term effects of various dietary strategies.

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