Participants were randomly assigned to one of two 12-month programs: daily caloric restriction or 4:3 intermittent fasting.
Those in the 4:3 group ate without restriction on four days per week and fasted on three non-consecutive days.
However, the study authors found intermittent fasting led to modestly greater weight loss than daily caloric restriction.
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The intermittent fasting group lost about six pounds more than the daily caloric restriction group.
Why Was Intermittent Fasting More Effective for Weight Loss?
Simply put, the 4:3 method may be easier for people.
The study theorizes that daily caloric restriction is more difficult to maintain than the 4:3 diet.
Is Intermittent Fasting ‘Better’ Than Daily Calorie Restriction?
Published online April 1, 2025:ANNALS-24-01631.
doi:10.7326/ANNALS-24-01631
National Institutes of Health (NIH).Calculate Your Body Mass Index.
